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Evidence checklist

Cholesteatoma

DC 620038 CFR § 4.87Organs of Sense

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
ENT evaluation and surgical records documenting cholesteatomaCritical

Records from an ENT specialist documenting the cholesteatoma (primary vs. acquired, location, extent) and surgical treatment (tympanomastoidectomy) with pathology confirmation.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking cholesteatoma to service (TM perforation from blast, recurrent OM)Critical

Medical opinion connecting cholesteatoma to in-service TM perforation from blast injury or chronic otitis media acquired during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Diagnostic tests and lab results

0 of 2 collected
CT temporal bone documenting extent and bony erosionCritical

High-resolution CT showing opacification of the middle ear/mastoid and any bony destruction from the cholesteatoma.

Imaging or lab facility · records request
Audiogram documenting hearing lossCritical

Hearing test results showing conductive or mixed hearing loss from cholesteatoma.

Imaging or lab facility · records request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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