Anterior Spinal Cord Syndrome

DC 8013Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8013

Damage to the front portion of the spinal cord, typically from vascular compromise, causing motor paralysis and loss of pain and temperature sensation below the level of injury while preserving some touch and position sense. The VA rates this condition based on the resulting motor and sensory deficits.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8013

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8013. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your anterior cord syndrome causes complete paralysis below the level of injury with total loss of pain and temperature sensation. You are wheelchair dependent and may have complete loss of bladder and bowel control.

What the VA looks for

Complete motor paralysis below the lesion
Total loss of pain and temperature sensation
Wheelchair dependence
Neurogenic bladder and bowel requiring catheterization and bowel program
Requires assistance with activities of daily living

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the specific pattern of anterior cord syndrome — the hallmark is motor loss with loss of pain/temperature but preserved position sense, which differentiates it from complete cord injury and affects the diagnostic workup.
⚠Not filing separately for bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction — these are common complications that each warrant separate ratings under their respective body systems.
⚠Not connecting the condition to military service — anterior cord syndrome can result from traumatic injuries, surgical complications, or vascular events that occurred during or were aggravated by service.
⚠Not requesting special monthly compensation (SMC) for loss of use of extremities — if you cannot use your legs for balance, propulsion, or other functions, SMC may apply.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Central Nervous System and Neuromuscular Diseases
DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Anterior Spinal Cord Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8013

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Complete motor paralysis below the lesion
Total loss of pain and temperature sensation
Wheelchair dependence
Neurogenic bladder and bowel requiring catheterization and bowel program
Requires assistance with activities of daily living

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the specific pattern of anterior cord syndrome — the hallmark is motor loss with loss of pain/temperature but preserved position sense, which differentiates it from complete cord injury and affects the diagnostic workup.

⚠Not filing separately for bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction — these are common complications that each warrant separate ratings under their respective body systems.

⚠Not connecting the condition to military service — anterior cord syndrome can result from traumatic injuries, surgical complications, or vascular events that occurred during or were aggravated by service.

⚠Not requesting special monthly compensation (SMC) for loss of use of extremities — if you cannot use your legs for balance, propulsion, or other functions, SMC may apply.