Diagnostic Code 6037 · 38 CFR §4.79
A pinguecula is a yellowish, slightly raised growth on the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white of the eye), usually near the cornea on the nasal side. Like pterygium, it is strongly associated with chronic UV exposure and dry, windy environments. Unlike pterygium, it does not grow onto the cornea. It can cause irritation, dryness, and cosmetic concerns. Many veterans who served in desert or maritime environments develop pingueculae.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Pinguecula causing chronic irritation, documented dry eye symptoms requiring ongoing treatment, or visual disturbance from inflammation. |
| 0% | Asymptomatic pinguecula with no irritation, no dry eye symptoms, and no visual impact. |
Ophthalmology records documenting the pinguecula, deployment records showing UV and environmental exposure during service, documentation of chronic irritation or dry eye treatment, and photographs if the growth is prominent.
If your pinguecula causes chronic symptoms requiring treatment, yes. While many pingueculae are asymptomatic, those causing daily irritation, redness, or dry eye in veterans with clear environmental exposure during service can receive a compensable rating.
While they are related conditions caused by similar exposures, a pinguecula does not directly transform into a pterygium. However, having a pinguecula does indicate the type of chronic UV exposure that also leads to pterygium development, and you may develop both.