Cholesteatoma

DC 6200Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6200

An abnormal skin growth in the middle ear behind the eardrum, usually caused by repeated ear infections. It can damage hearing bones and lead to hearing loss. Rated based on active disease, plus separate ratings for hearing loss and complications.

Rating Levels

You have active cholesteatoma with suppuration (active drainage) or aural polyps. Hearing impairment and complications are rated separately.

What the VA looks for

Active cholesteatoma on examination or imaging
Ear drainage (suppuration) documented
Aural polyps on otoscopic examination
CT temporal bone showing cholesteatoma
Treatment records for active disease

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing for hearing loss as a separate condition — cholesteatoma commonly causes conductive hearing loss rated under DC 6100.
⚠Not documenting chronic ear drainage that supports the 10% rating.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like vertigo, facial nerve weakness, or tinnitus.
⚠Not connecting to in-service ear infections or eardrum perforations.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…