Evidence checklist

Chronic Otitis Externa

DC 621038 CFR § 4.87Organs of Sense

Evidence strength

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

Target

Saved locally

Specialist opinion

Highest value

ENT evaluation documenting chronic otitis externa diagnosisCritical

Records from an ENT specialist documenting recurrent external ear canal inflammation, infection, and complications.

Private provider · independent opinion

Nexus opinion linking chronic OE to service (water exposure, humid environments)Critical

Medical opinion connecting chronic otitis externa to in-service exposure to water, humid tropical environments, or hearing protection use that traps moisture.

Private provider · independent opinion

Treatment records

Treatment records for recurrent otitis externa episodesCritical

Records of antibiotic/antifungal ear drop treatments, debridement, and frequency of recurrences — establishes chronicity.

VA or private records · written request

Lay statements

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 →

Service records

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 for Buddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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