Pterygium

DC 6034Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6034

A noncancerous growth of tissue on the white of the eye that can extend onto the cornea and affect vision. The VA rates based on visual impairment or disfigurement caused by the growth.

Rating Levels

Your pterygium has grown onto the cornea and is affecting your visual acuity. The rating is based on visual impairment using the visual acuity codes, or on disfigurement, whichever is higher.

What the VA looks for

Pterygium extending onto the cornea documented
Visual acuity impairment measured on examination
Corneal involvement confirmed by ophthalmologist
Visual acuity testing showing decreased function
Photographs documenting disfigurement if applicable

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting visual acuity testing to document any vision impairment caused by the pterygium.
⚠Not connecting to UV exposure during military service (desert, tropical deployments, flight line work).
⚠Not documenting recurrence after surgical removal.
⚠If bilateral, file for each eye separately.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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