VASRD 6202 · Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)

Mastoiditis VA Disability Rating

Infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear, often from untreated ear infections.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
10%Ongoing pus discharge from ear

How the VA Evaluates Mastoiditis

ENT records of infection, imaging, and hearing impact.

Approval rate

Low (~35%) unless infection is ongoing.

Annual service-connected

150 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • ENT consult and imaging
  • Records of antibiotics and ear drainage

Strategy Tips

  • Only file if recent ENT evidence exists
  • Include hearing impact details

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • Resolved condition with no current symptoms
  • No hearing test

Common Filing Mistakes

  • No specialist treatment
  • Failure to show chronicity

Onset Patterns

  • Complication of chronic otitis media

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Mastoiditis. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Hearing Loss

    Damage to ear structures

  • Tinnitus

    Inner ear pressure

Common questions about Mastoiditis

Is Mastoiditis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Mastoiditis under VASRD diagnostic code 6202 (Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)). Infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear, often from untreated ear infections.
What VA disability rating can I get for Mastoiditis?
Possible VA ratings for Mastoiditis are 10%. Examples: 10% — Ongoing pus discharge from ear.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Mastoiditis?
The average awarded rating for Mastoiditis is 10%. Roughly 150 veterans are service-connected for Mastoiditis each year. Typical approval likelihood: Low (~35%) unless infection is ongoing..
What evidence helps prove Mastoiditis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Mastoiditis claim includes: ENT consult and imaging; Records of antibiotics and ear drainage.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Mastoiditis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Mastoiditis: No specialist treatment; Failure to show chronicity.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Mastoiditis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Mastoiditis include: Hearing Loss, Tinnitus. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Mastoiditis combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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