Diagnostic Code 6025 · 38 CFR §4.79
Diagnostic code 6025 covers disorders of the lacrimal apparatus, the system responsible for producing, distributing, and draining tears. This includes conditions like epiphora (excessive tearing from blocked tear drainage), dacryocystitis (infection of the tear sac), dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca from inadequate tear production), and other conditions affecting the tear glands or drainage system. For veterans, these conditions commonly result from exposure to desert sand and dust during deployments, chemical exposures, blast injuries affecting the tear system, facial trauma damaging the drainage ducts, or as a side effect of medications for other service-connected conditions. LASIK or PRK surgeries performed during military service can also cause chronic dry eye. The VA assigns a flat 20% for bilateral lacrimal apparatus disorders and 10% for unilateral.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Bilateral disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (affecting both eyes). |
| 10% | Unilateral disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (affecting one eye). |
A diagnosis from an ophthalmologist or optometrist with documentation of lacrimal system testing is required. For dry eye, this includes Schirmer test results, tear breakup time, and corneal staining. For blocked ducts or dacryocystitis, imaging of the drainage system may be needed. Treatment records showing the types of treatments used (artificial tears, prescription drops, punctal plugs, moisture chamber goggles, or surgical procedures) demonstrate severity. If the condition is secondary to environmental exposure during deployment, include service records showing deployment locations.
Yes. Dry eye falls under DC 6025 (disorders of the lacrimal apparatus) and is a recognized condition in the VA rating schedule. The rating is 10% for unilateral and 20% for bilateral. Even a 10% rating provides monthly compensation and can contribute to a combined rating that reaches important thresholds.
Yes. LASIK and PRK surgery are well-documented causes of chronic dry eye. If you had refractive surgery during military service and developed persistent dry eye symptoms, you have a strong basis for a direct service connection claim under DC 6025.