Pterygium is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 6034 of 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6034 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.
Benign, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva onto the cornea, typically from the nasal side. Associated with chronic UV light exposure, wind, and dust - all common in military service. May cause irritation, redness, and if it grows large enough, visual distortion or obstruction.
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.