Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 6354 in the Infectious Diseases category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Symptoms are nearly constant and so severe as to restrict routine daily activities almost completely and which may occasionally prevent self-care. |
| 60% | Symptoms are nearly constant and restrict routine daily activities to less than 50% of the pre-illness level; **OR** symptoms come and go, resulting in periods of incapacitation lasting at least 6 weeks in total over a year. |
| 40% | Symptoms are nearly constant and restrict routine daily activities from 50-75% of the pre-illness level; **OR** symptoms come and go, resulting in periods of incapacitation lasting at least 4 weeks in total over a year. |
| 20% | Symptoms are nearly constant and restrict routine daily activities by less than 25% of the pre-illness level; **OR** symptoms come and go, resulting in periods of incapacitation lasting at least 2 weeks in total over a year. |
| 10% | Symptoms come and go but there are periods of incapacitation lasting at least one week in total over a year; **OR** symptoms are controlled by continuous medication. |
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 6354 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.