Progressive deterioration of the retina or macula that may cause vision loss.
If you are pursuing a rating based on incapacitating episodes, medical records that document each treatment visit are central. Records should clearly show the date of each visit, that the visit was made specifically to treat your eye condition, and what treatment was provided. Examples of qualifying treatments include intravitreal or periocular injections, laser treatments, other surgical interventions, and systemic immunosuppressants or biologic agents. A count of those visits over the prior 12 months determines which rating level applies.
If you are pursuing a rating based on visual impairment instead, the relevant evidence shifts to visual acuity measurements, visual field testing, and other exam findings that reflect how much your vision has been reduced. Your own statements describing how your symptoms affect daily tasks — such as reading, driving, or working — can help show the functional impact of your condition. VA will apply whichever approach, incapacitating episodes or visual impairment, results in the higher rating for you.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
