Optic nerve damage (optic neuropathy)

Optic neuropathy is rated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye. VA will evaluate your condition using either visual impairment caused by the optic neuropathy or incapacitating episodes over the past 12 months — whichever produces the higher rating.

When rated on incapacitating episodes, the rating depends on how many treatment visits you had for the eye condition in the past 12 months. Seven or more visits produces a 60% rating. At least 5 but fewer than 7 visits produces a 40% rating. At least 3 but fewer than 5 visits produces a 20% rating. At least 1 but fewer than 3 visits produces a 10% rating.

An incapacitating episode is one that is severe enough to require a clinic visit to a provider specifically for treatment, not just a routine checkup. Examples of qualifying treatment include systemic immunosuppressants or biologic agents, intravitreal or periocular injections, laser treatments, or other surgical interventions.

When rated on visual impairment instead, VA uses a separate set of formulas found in 38 CFR 4.75–4.78 and diagnostic codes 6061–6091.