Diagnostic Code 6010 · 38 CFR §4.79
Ocular tuberculosis occurs when TB bacteria infect the eye, most commonly affecting the choroid and retina but potentially involving any ocular structure. The condition can cause severe inflammation, vision loss, and structural damage to the eye. Veterans who contracted pulmonary TB during service may develop ocular involvement as the bacteria spread through the bloodstream. Treatment requires the same prolonged multi-drug antibiotic regimen as systemic TB, combined with anti-inflammatory eye medications. Even after successful treatment, permanent scarring and vision loss may remain. Under the CFR, active ocular TB receives a mandatory 100% rating. When inactive, it is evaluated under the graduated rating provisions of 38 CFR 4.88c or 4.89, whichever is appropriate.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active tuberculosis of the eye receives a mandatory 100% rating. When inactive, the condition is evaluated under the graduated rating provisions of 38 CFR 4.88c or 4.89, or based on residual visual impairment, whichever is more favorable. |
Ophthalmology records confirming ocular TB diagnosis are essential. Systemic TB testing results (tuberculin skin test, interferon-gamma release assay), retinal imaging showing choroidal granulomas or other TB-related changes, treatment records including anti-TB medications and ocular anti-inflammatory therapy, and visual function testing documenting residual impairment all strengthen your claim.
TB bacteria can reach the eye through the bloodstream from a lung infection. They most commonly form granulomas (inflammatory nodules) in the choroid layer beneath the retina. These can cause inflammation, fluid leakage, and vision-threatening damage. Even after the bacteria are killed with antibiotics, the scarring from the granulomas remains permanent.
Yes. Ocular TB developing in a veteran with service-connected pulmonary TB is a strong secondary claim since the eye infection represents spread of the same bacteria. Include your pulmonary TB service connection and infectious disease records documenting the relationship.