Diagnostic Code 6013 · 38 CFR §4.79
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma, where the eye's drainage system gradually becomes less efficient, causing pressure buildup that damages the optic nerve. The damage causes progressive, irreversible visual field loss that typically starts with peripheral vision and can advance to tunnel vision or blindness. Open-angle glaucoma is particularly insidious because it usually has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. In veterans, it may develop from eye trauma during service, steroid medications for service-connected conditions, or may be claimed if military service aggravated a pre-existing tendency. The VA provides a minimum 10% rating when continuous medication is required, and higher ratings based on incapacitating episodes or visual impairment.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Minimum rating when continuous medication is required. Also applies with at least one but fewer than three incapacitating treatment visits during the past 12 months. |
| 20% | At least three but fewer than five incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits during the past 12 months, or moderate visual impairment. |
| 40% | At least five but fewer than seven treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
| 60% | Seven or more incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits during the past 12 months, or visual impairment equivalent to this level. |
An ophthalmology diagnosis of open-angle glaucoma is required. Serial visual field tests (Humphrey or Goldmann) showing progression over time are the most important evidence. Intraocular pressure measurements and optic nerve evaluations, OCT imaging of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer, and treatment records including medications and any surgical procedures all strengthen your claim.
The VA uses formal visual field testing (typically Humphrey automated perimetry) to measure the remaining visual field in degrees. The rating is based on the average contraction of the visual field. More constricted fields yield higher ratings, with severe bilateral constriction potentially qualifying for 100% and special monthly compensation.
Yes. Corticosteroid medications, including eye drops prescribed for other eye conditions, are a well-known cause of secondary glaucoma. If you developed elevated eye pressure and glaucoma while using steroids for a service-connected condition, the glaucoma can be claimed as secondary.
Yes. Normal-tension glaucoma still causes optic nerve damage and visual field loss. The VA rates based on the resulting vision impairment, not the pressure level itself.
While glaucoma is not on the presumptive list for Agent Orange, individual claims can still be filed with medical evidence showing a connection to toxic exposures during service.
Yes. Diabetic eye disease can lead to neovascular glaucoma. If your diabetes is service-connected, you can claim glaucoma as a secondary condition with appropriate medical evidence.