Visual Field Concentric Contraction

DC 6080Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.76a, DC 6080

A narrowing of the visual field from all sides, sometimes described as tunnel vision. The remaining visual field is measured in degrees from the center, and the VA assigns ratings based on how much peripheral vision has been lost. This condition can result from glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, optic nerve damage, or brain injuries.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6080

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.76a, DC 6080. 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 visual field is concentrically contracted to 5 degrees or less in both eyes, which is rated as equivalent to blindness.

What the VA looks for

Visual field contraction to 5 degrees or less bilaterally
Functionally blind from visual field loss
Total dependence on others for navigation
Light perception may be present but functional vision absent

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that visual field loss is rated separately from visual acuity — you can have 20/20 central vision but severe visual field contraction that qualifies for a high rating.
⚠Not ensuring the C&P examiner performs proper visual field testing (Goldmann kinetic or Humphrey automated perimetry) — a standard vision test does not measure peripheral vision. The 8 principal meridians must be tested per 38 CFR 4.76a.
⚠Not documenting how visual field loss affects daily life — difficulty navigating crowds, inability to drive, bumping into objects, and fall risk all support the severity of the condition.
⚠Not connecting visual field loss to its underlying service-connected cause — glaucoma, TBI, optic nerve damage from toxic exposures, and retinitis pigmentosa are all potential connections.

Related DBQ Forms

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Condition Rating Guides

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Visual Field Concentric Contraction

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6080

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your visual field is concentrically contracted to 5 degrees or less in both eyes, which is rated as equivalent to blindness.

What the VA looks for

Visual field contraction to 5 degrees or less bilaterally
Functionally blind from visual field loss
Total dependence on others for navigation
Light perception may be present but functional vision absent

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that visual field loss is rated separately from visual acuity — you can have 20/20 central vision but severe visual field contraction that qualifies for a high rating.

⚠Not ensuring the C&P examiner performs proper visual field testing (Goldmann kinetic or Humphrey automated perimetry) — a standard vision test does not measure peripheral vision. The 8 principal meridians must be tested per 38 CFR 4.76a.

⚠Not documenting how visual field loss affects daily life — difficulty navigating crowds, inability to drive, bumping into objects, and fall risk all support the severity of the condition.

⚠Not connecting visual field loss to its underlying service-connected cause — glaucoma, TBI, optic nerve damage from toxic exposures, and retinitis pigmentosa are all potential connections.