VA Diagnostic Code 8010Myelitis
A single 10% rating under § 4.124a. Here is what the VA requires for it.
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- 10%
Minimum rating
Notes on this code
These notes are part of the regulation. They change how the levels above are applied.
- Note: It is required for the minimum ratings for residuals under diagnostic codes 8000-8025, that there be ascertainable residuals. Determinations as to the presence of residuals not capable of objective verification, i.e., headaches, dizziness, fatigability, must be approached on the basis of the diagnosis recorded; subjective residuals will be accepted when consistent with the disease and not more likely attributable to other disease or no disease. It is of exceptional importance that when ratings in excess of the prescribed minimum ratings are assigned, the diagnostic codes utilized as bases of evaluation be cited, in addition to the codes identifying the diagnoses.
Myelitis (VA Diagnostic Code 8010)
Understanding Your VA Rating for Myelitis
Myelitis is a neurological condition rated by the VA under Diagnostic Code 8010, found in 38 CFR § 4.124a. It falls within the body system category of Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders.
Available Rating Level
Under Diagnostic Code 8010, the VA rating schedule lists the following level:
| Rating | What It Reflects |
|---|---|
| 10% | Minimum rating |
Ratings above the minimum may be assigned based on the residuals of the condition. When a rating in excess of the minimum is assigned, the VA is required to cite the diagnostic codes used as the basis of evaluation, in addition to the codes identifying the diagnoses.
What the VA Looks For
When rating myelitis and its residuals, the VA applies a specific rule that governs diagnostic codes 8000–8025:
- Ascertainable residuals are required for the minimum rating. There must be identifiable residuals connected to the condition.
- Objectively verifiable vs. subjective residuals: Some residuals — such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigability — may not be capable of objective verification. These determinations must be approached on the basis of the diagnosis recorded.
- Acceptance of subjective residuals: Subjective residuals will be accepted when they are consistent with the disease and not more likely attributable to another disease or to no disease at all.
- Citing the basis for higher ratings: It is considered of exceptional importance that, when ratings above the prescribed minimum are assigned, the diagnostic codes used as the bases of evaluation are cited alongside the codes identifying the diagnoses.
This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule (38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8010). Individual ratings depend on the specific facts and evidence in each case.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.124a, diagnostic code 8010. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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