What happens during a C&P exam for Keratoconus?

Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms. Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.

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Keratoconus

Q: What are the VA rating percentages for Keratoconus?

Keratoconus (DC 6035) is rated at 0% under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6035 (by analogy). No standalone schedular percentage tier under DC 6035. Rate on resulting visual impairment (acuity DCs 6061-6066 — typically the controlling pathway given keratoconus characteristically degrades best-corrected vision) OR General Rating Formula for active progression (corneal crosslinking, intracorneal ring segments, transplant). Whichever yields the higher evaluation.

Q: What rates 0% for Keratoconus under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6035 (by analogy)?

Under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6035 (by analogy) (DC 6035), a 0% rating for Keratoconus requires: No standalone schedular percentage tier under DC 6035. Rate on resulting visual impairment (acuity DCs 6061-6066 — typically the controlling pathway given keratoconus characteristically degrades best-corrected vision) OR General Rating Formula for active progression (corneal crosslinking, intracorneal ring segments, transplant). Whichever yields the higher evaluation.

Q: What evidence do I need for a Keratoconus VA claim?

Key evidence for a Keratoconus claim includes: Service treatment records; Current medical diagnosis and treatment records; Buddy/lay statements; Prescription history; Employment impact documentation. All evidence should document both the condition and its impact on daily functioning.

DC 603538 C.F.R. § 4.79

Diagnostic Code

DC 6035

38 C.F.R. § 4.79

Rating Range

0–0%

1 severity tier

Source

Verified

38 C.F.R. § 4.79

Keratoconus is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 6035 of 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6035 (by analogy) across 1 severity tier (0%). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303.

Educational tool only. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.

Overview

Progressive thinning and cone-shaped bulging of the cornea, causing irregular astigmatism, myopia, and visual distortion. Usually develops in adolescence or young adulthood. Service connection may be established if aggravated by military service.

Rating Criteria

No standalone schedular percentage tier under DC 6035. Rate on resulting visual impairment (acuity DCs 6061-6066 — typically the controlling pathway given keratoconus characteristically degrades best-corrected vision) OR General Rating Formula for active progression (corneal crosslinking, intracorneal ring segments, transplant). Whichever yields the higher evaluation.

03Key Evidence

—Service treatment records

—Current medical diagnosis and treatment records

—Buddy/lay statements

—Prescription history

—Employment impact documentation

—Any relevant diagnostic testing

04C&P Exam Tips

1Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.

2Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.

3Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.

4Mention all medications and their side effects.

5Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.

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Tools

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Sources & Editorial

Rating criteria text quoted verbatim from 38 C.F.R. § 4.79 (Eye). Source verified 2026-05-17 by ClaimRecon Editorial Team against the Cornell Law CFR mirror; eCFR.gov is the authoritative government source.

View § 4.79 on eCFR →Cornell Law mirror →Editorial Standards →Suggest a correction →

EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026

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