---
title: "DC 6081 - Scotoma, unilateral:"
diagnostic_code: "6081"
body_system: "Organs of Special Sense (Eye)"
cfr_section: "§ 4.79"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/eye/6081-scotoma-unilateral"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.79"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:22:04.036355Z"
---

# DC 6081 - Scotoma, unilateral:

Rated under § 4.79. Body system: Organs of Special Sense (Eye).

Alternatively, evaluate based on visual impairment due to scotoma, if that would result in a higher evaluation

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 10% | Minimum, with scotoma affecting at least one-quarter of the visual field (quadrantanopsia) or with centrally located scotoma of any size |

## Notes

- Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under 38 CFR 3.350.

# Scotoma, Unilateral (VA Diagnostic Code 6081)

*Organs of Special Sense (Eye) — 38 CFR § 4.79*

## Understanding This Condition

A **scotoma** is an area of reduced or lost vision within an otherwise normal field of sight — sometimes described as a blind spot or gap in what you can see. This entry, **Diagnostic Code 6081**, addresses a scotoma affecting **one eye (unilateral)**.

The VA rates this condition under **38 CFR § 4.79**, which covers disabilities of the organs of special sense — the eye.

## Available Rating Level

| Rating | What It Reflects |
|--------|------------------|
| **10%** | Minimum rating, with a scotoma affecting at least one-quarter of the visual field (**quadrantanopsia**), or with a **centrally located scotoma of any size** |

## How the VA Evaluates This Condition

When rating a unilateral scotoma, the VA looks at:

- Whether the scotoma affects **at least one-quarter of the visual field** (quadrantanopsia), **or**
- Whether there is a **centrally located scotoma of any size**

**Alternative evaluation method:** The VA may instead evaluate the condition based on the **visual impairment caused by the scotoma**, if doing so would result in a **higher evaluation**.

## Additional Consideration

- The VA will **review for entitlement to special monthly compensation** under **38 CFR § 3.350**.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule for Diagnostic Code 6081. Individual evaluations depend on your specific medical evidence and examination findings.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.79