---
title: "DC 6210 - Chronic otitis externa:"
diagnostic_code: "6210"
body_system: "Impairment of Auditory Acuity"
cfr_section: "§ 4.87"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/hearing/6210-chronic-otitis-externa"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.87"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:24:31.941170Z"
---

# DC 6210 - Chronic otitis externa:

Rated under § 4.87. Body system: Impairment of Auditory Acuity.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 10% | Swelling, dry and scaly or serous discharge, and itching requiring frequent and prolonged treatment |

# Chronic Otitis Externa (VA Diagnostic Code 6210)

## Understanding Your Rating for Chronic Otitis Externa

Chronic otitis externa is a condition affecting the ear, rated by the VA under **Diagnostic Code 6210** within the **§ 4.87** regulations covering **Impairment of Auditory Acuity**.

If you are living with this condition, understanding how the VA evaluates it can help you know what to expect from the rating process.

---

## Available Rating Level

Under Diagnostic Code 6210, there is a single rating level available:

| Rating | What It Reflects |
|--------|------------------|
| **10%** | Swelling, dry and scaly or serous discharge, and itching requiring frequent and prolonged treatment |

---

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating chronic otitis externa, the VA reviews the specific symptoms and treatment requirements associated with the condition. To meet the criteria for a **10% rating**, the evidence should reflect:

- **Swelling** of the affected area
- **Dry and scaly or serous discharge**
- **Itching** that **requires frequent and prolonged treatment**

These factors — the presence of the described symptoms together with an ongoing need for frequent and prolonged treatment — are central to how the VA applies this rating.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6210. It is provided for general educational purposes to help you understand how this condition is described in the rating criteria.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.87