VA Diagnostic Code 6275Sense of smell, complete loss
A single 10% rating under § 4.87a. Here is what the VA requires for it.
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- 10%
Notes on this code
These notes are part of the regulation. They change how the levels above are applied.
- Note: Evaluation will be assigned under diagnostic codes 6275 or 6276 only if there is an anatomical or pathological basis for the condition.
Complete Loss of Sense of Smell (Anosmia)
VA Diagnostic Code 6275 · 38 CFR § 4.87a · Diseases of the Ear
Understanding This Condition
Complete loss of the sense of smell means the total inability to detect odors. Under the VA rating schedule, this condition is evaluated as a disease of the ear and is assigned Diagnostic Code 6275.
Available Rating Level
The VA rating schedule provides a single evaluation level for the complete loss of the sense of smell:
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Complete loss of sense of smell |
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating this condition, the VA requires medical evidence supporting a physical cause for the loss. According to the rating notes:
Note: Evaluation will be assigned under diagnostic codes 6275 or 6276 only if there is an anatomical or pathological basis for the condition.
In other words, the record must show an anatomical or pathological basis for the loss of smell in order for a rating to be assigned under this diagnostic code.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.87a, diagnostic code 6275. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
View official sourceHow to claim this
Knowing the criteria is the first half. Getting your file to show them is the second.
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Look at the rung above yours and write down exactly what it asks for that your file does not show yet — a diagnosis, a measurement, a prescribed brace, a doctor’s opinion linking it to service.
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File under diagnostic code 6275 and attach the evidence for the level you are asking for. Other Diseases of the Ear codes may cover your secondary conditions.
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