---
title: "DC 8212 - Paralysis of: [Twelfth (hypoglossal) cranial nerve]"
diagnostic_code: "8212"
body_system: "Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders"
cfr_section: "§ 4.124a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/neurological/8212-paralysis-of-twelfth-hypoglossal-cranial-nerve"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.124a"
updated: "2026-07-21T05:13:56.222203Z"
---

# DC 8212 - Paralysis of: [Twelfth (hypoglossal) cranial nerve]

Rated under § 4.124a. Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 50% | Complete |
| 30% | Incomplete, severe |
| 10% | Incomplete, moderate |

## Notes

- Note: Dependent upon loss of motor function of tongue.

# Paralysis of the Twelfth (Hypoglossal) Cranial Nerve — VA Diagnostic Code 8212

**Body System:** Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders
**Regulation:** 38 CFR § 4.124a

## What This Condition Is

The twelfth cranial nerve, also called the hypoglossal nerve, controls movement of the tongue. When this nerve is paralyzed, it affects the tongue's ability to move properly. The VA rates this condition under Diagnostic Code 8212.

## How the VA Rates It

The VA assigns a disability rating based on how severe the paralysis is. There are three rating levels for this condition:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **50%** | Complete paralysis |
| **30%** | Incomplete paralysis, severe |
| **10%** | Incomplete paralysis, moderate |

## What the VA Looks For

When rating paralysis of the hypoglossal cranial nerve, the VA evaluates the condition based on the **loss of motor function of the tongue**. The rating level assigned depends on whether the paralysis is complete or incomplete, and — for incomplete paralysis — whether it is moderate or severe.

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*This information is based on the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.124a. It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating outcome.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.124a