Contents
- Introduction
- Rating Tables
- Section 1 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Cerebral Function
- Selection of Tables
- Cognitive Function
- Communication
- Loss of Function - Cognition
- Loss of Function - Speech and Expression
- Loss of Function - Comprehension
- Tables and Steps
- Table 20.1 Loss of Function - Cognition
- Steps to Determine Cognition Assessment
- Table 20.2 Loss of Function - Speech and Expression
- Table 20.3 Loss of Function - Comprehension
- Steps to Determine Speech and Expression /Comprehension Assessment
- Section 2 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Cranial and Peripheral Nerve Conditions
- Selection of Tables
- Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves
- Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves
- Tables, Charts and Steps
- Table 20.4 Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves
- Steps to Determine Cranial Nerve Assessment
- Table 20.5 Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves
- Steps to Determine Peripheral Nerve Assessment
- Chart 1 - Chart of Cranial Nerve Function
- Chart 2 - Chart of Peripheral Nerve Function
- Section 3 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Seizure Disorders, Narcolepsy and Cataplexy, Headache Conditions and Miscellaneous Neurological Conditions
- Selection of Tables
- Other Impairment - Seizures
- Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy
- Other Impairment - Headaches
- Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological Conditions
- Tables, Charts and Steps
- Table 20.6 Other Impairment - Seizures
- Steps to Determine Seizure Assessment
- Table 20.7 Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy
- Steps to Determine Narcolepsy/Cataplexy Assessment
- Table 20.8 Other Impairment - Headaches
- Steps to Determine Headache Assessment
- Table 20.9 Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological
- Steps to Determine Miscellaneous Neurological Assessment
Introduction
This chapter provides criteria for assessing permanent impairment from entitled conditions of the central and peripheral nervous system (brain, cranial and peripheral nerves).
This chapter is divided into three sections. The first section provides criteria to assess impairment of cerebral function. The second section provides criteria to assess impairment of the cranial and peripheral nerves. The third section provides criteria to assess seizure disorders, narcolepsy and cataplexy, headache conditions and miscellaneous neurological conditions.
A rating is not given from this chapter for conditions listed below.
- Impairment from spinal nerve root compression lesions/sciatica is rated within Chapter 17, Musculoskeletal Impairment.
- Impairment from spinal cord injury or disease affecting the upper limbs only or the lower limbs only (but not both) is rated within Chapter 17, Musculoskeletal Impairment.
- Impairment from spinal cord injury or disease affecting both the upper and lower limbs is rated within Chapter 19, Activities of Daily Living.
- Impairment from polyneuropathy which affects the function of both the upper and lower limbs is rated within Chapter 19, Activities of Daily Living.
- Impairment from brain injury or disease affecting the upper limbs only or the lower limbs only (but not both) is rated within Chapter 17, Musculoskeletal Impairment.
- Impairment from neurological conditions that have multi-system or global body effects such as multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is rated within Chapter 19, Activities of Daily Living.
- Impairment from sleep apnea is rated within Chapter 12, Cardiorespiratory Impairment.
- Impairment from disequilibrium is rated within Chapter 9, Hearing Loss and Ear Impairment.
- Impairment from psychiatric disorders is rated within Chapter 21, Psychiatric Impairment.
- Impairment from brain injury or disease resulting only in both upper and lower limb effects is rated within Chapter 19, Activities of Daily Living.
Note: Brain injury or disease which results in multiple deficits (e.g. head injury or cerebral vascular accident resulting in cognitive, psychiatric and physical impairments) is rated on individual merits.
Impairment from malignant neurological conditions is rated within Chapter 18, Malignant Impairment. Follow the steps contained within the Malignant Impairment chapter.
Rating Tables and Charts
This chapter contains five "Loss of Function" tables and four "Other Impairment" tables which may be used to rate entitled neurological conditions. Two reference charts are also included within this chapter which describe the effects of a complete loss of function of a cranial or peripheral nerve at its origin.
The tables within this chapter are:
Table | Loss of Function | Other Impairment |
---|---|---|
Table 20.1 | Loss of Function - Cognition | This table is used to rate impairment of cognition. |
Table 20.2 | Loss of Function - Speech and Expression | This table is used to rate impairment of speech and/or expression. |
Table 20.3 | Loss of Function - Comprehension | This table is used to rate impairment in comprehension. |
Table 20.4 | Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves | This table is used to rate impairment in cranial nerve function. |
Table 20.5 | Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves | This table is used to rate impairment of peripheral nerve function. |
Table 20.6 | Other Impairment - Seizures | This table is used to rate impairment from seizure disorders - major and minor. |
Table 20.7 | Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy | This table is used to rate impairment from narcolepsy and cataplexy. |
Table 20.8 | Other Impairment - Headaches | This table is used to rate impairment from headache conditions. |
Table 20.9 | Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological | This table is used to rate impairment from miscellaneous neurological conditions. |
Chart 1 | Chart of Cranial Nerve Function | This reference chart describes the effect of a complete loss of function of a cranial nerve. |
Chart 2 | Chart of Peripheral Nerve Function | This reference chart describes the effect of a complete loss of function of a peripheral nerve. |
Section 1 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Cerebral Function
The tables that may be used to rate impairment from cerebral conditions are:
Table | Loss of Function | Other Impairment |
---|---|---|
Table 20.1 | Loss of Function - Cognition | This table is used to rate impairment of cognition. |
Table 20.2 | Loss of Function - Speech and Expression | This table is used to rate impairment of speech and/or expression. |
Table 20.3 | Loss of Function - Comprehension | This table is used to rate impairment in comprehension. |
This section is used to rate impairment from conditions such as cerebral vascular accidents, dementia and other cognitive disorders (e.g. head injury).
Cognitive Function
Cognitive function deals with such aspects of knowledge as acquisition (learning), retention and recall (memory), and use (reasoning and problem solving). The Table 20.1 rating must relate only to cognitive deficits that were not present before the onset of the entitled condition.
Self reports of deteriorating mental function must be interpreted with caution. Dementia is often associated with a lack of insight or tendency to deny failing abilities. Self-reported complaints about poor memory may be more closely related to depressive symptoms than to true memory deficits. If there is doubt about the nature or extent of the deficit, formal neuropsychiatric testing may be required.
When rating neurological conditions which affect cognition, Table 20.1 - Loss of Function - Cognition is to be used. An impairment rating(s) may also be applicable from Table Table 20.2 - Loss of Function - Speech and Expression and/or Table Table 20.3 - Loss of Function - Comprehension. Impairment ratings are to be added when more than one table is used.
Note: Brain injury or disease which results in multiple deficits (e.g. head injury or cerebral vascular accident resulting in cognitive, psychiatric and physical impairments) is rated on individual merits.
Communication
Communication has two elements: expression and comprehension. "Expression" is the capacity to convey the content of one's mind to others. "Comprehension" means "understanding". It includes understanding of speech and gestures, recognition of sights and sounds, spatial and temporal orientation.
Expression and comprehension are to be rated separately by applying Table 20.2 and Table 20.3 respectively. Impairment ratings from these tables are to be added when criteria from both are applicable. Impairment ratings from these tables are not to include communication deficits that were present before the onset of the entitled condition.
Table 20.2 and Table 20.3 are to be used to rate impairment from neurological or neuromuscular conditions as well as local lesions involving the mechanisms of speech production.
Communication restricted by vision loss, hearing loss, or loss of hand function is not to be rated within this chapter.
Loss of Function - Cognition
Table 20.1 is used to rate impairment from cerebral conditions that affect cognition. The table contains three columns (categories) which are rated independently. The ratings are compared and the highest selected.
If more than one condition is to be rated from Table 20.1, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
When entitled cognitive conditions result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Loss of Function - Speech and Expression
Table 20.2 is used to rate impairment of cerebral conditions that affect speech and/or the ability to write. The table contains three columns (categories) which are rated independently. The ratings are compared and the highest selected.
If more than one condition is to be rated from Table 20.2, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
When entitled speech and expression conditions result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Loss of Function - Comprehension
Table 20.3 is used to rate impairment of cerebral conditions that affect comprehension of oral and/or written language. Only one rating may be selected. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
If more than one condition is to be rated from Table 20.3, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
When entitled comprehension conditions result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Table 20.1 - Loss of Function - Cognition
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.1. Each column in Table 20.1 is rated independently. If more than one rating is applicable within a column, the highest rating is selected as the column rating. The ratings from each column are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.1, only one criterion must be met at a level of impairment for that rating to be selected.
Rating | Cognitive | Emotional & Behavioural |
Personal Care |
---|---|---|---|
Nil |
|
|
|
Nine |
|
|
|
Thirteen |
|
|
|
Twenty-Three |
|
||
Thirty-Two |
|
|
|
Forty-Nine |
|
|
|
Eighty-One |
|
|
|
Table 20.2 - Loss of Function - Speech and Expression
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.2. Each column in Table 20.2 is rated independently. If more than one rating is applicable within a column, the highest rating is selected as the column rating. The ratings from each column are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.2, all criteria designated at that rating level must be met.
Rating | Criteria | ||
---|---|---|---|
Speech | Conversation | Ability to Write | |
Nil |
|
|
|
Four |
|
|
|
Nine |
|
|
|
Eighteen |
|
|
Has moderate dysgraphia*. Unable to write more than short sentences which include frequent spelling errors, e.g.: has difficulty filling in bank forms. |
Twenty-Six |
|
|
|
Thirty-Four |
|
|
|
* Dysgraphia is the inability to write properly due to an expression problem from an acquired neurological condition.
Table 20.3 - Loss of Function - Comprehension
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.3. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.3, only one criterion designated at that rating level must be met.
Rating | Criteria |
---|---|
Nil |
|
Four |
|
Nine |
|
Twenty-One |
|
Thirty-Four |
|
Seventy |
|
Eighty-One |
|
* Alexia is a form of receptive aphasia in which there is inability to understand written language.
Steps to Determine Cognition / Speech and Expression / Comprehension Assessment
- Step 1: Determine a rating from each column in Table 20.1 (Loss of Function-Cognition) (if applicable). Compare and select the highest column rating as the Table 20.1 rating.
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3:Determine a rating from each column in Table 20.2 (Loss of Function-Speech and Expression) (if applicable). Compare and select the highest column rating as the Table 20.2 rating.
- Step 4: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 3.
- Step 5: Determine a rating from Table 20.3 (Loss of Function - Comprehension) (if applicable)..
- Step 6: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 5.
- Step 7: Add the ratings from Step 2, Step 4 and Step 6.
- Step 8: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 9: Add the ratings at Step 7 and Step 8.
- Step 10: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 9.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Section 2 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Cranial and Peripheral Nerve Conditions
The tables that may be used to rate impairment from cranial and peripheral nerve conditions are:
Table | Loss of Function | Other Impairment |
---|---|---|
Table 20.4 | Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves | This table is used to rate impairment of cranial nerve function. |
Table 20.5 | Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves | This table is used to rate impairment of peripheral nerve function. |
Chart 1 | Chart of Cranial Nerve Function | This reference chart describes the effect of a complete loss of function of a cranial nerve. |
Chart 2 | Chart of Peripheral Nerve Function | This reference chart describes the effect of a complete loss of function of a peripheral nerve. |
Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves
The twelve pairs of cranial nerves emerge from the base of the brain to control sensory, motor and autonomic functions. Some of the nerves have a mixture of sensory, motor and/or autonomic fibres, while others are purely sensory or motor.
Table 20.4 - Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves rates impairment of cranial nerve conditions. Instructions are provided within this table when a rating for a cranial nerve condition is required from another table within this chapter or from another chapter.
When entitled conditions of the cranial nerves result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves
Peripheral nerves convey nerve impulses to and from the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to control sensory, motor and autonomic functions. A Member/Veteran/Client may have a disturbance of any one of or all of these functions. The disturbance may be partial or complete, unilateral or bilateral, of one nerve or of multiple nerves. A deficit in nerve conduction may result in a functional impairment.
Table 20.5 - Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves rates impairment of specific peripheral nerves. The first column (category) is used to rate complete loss of nerve function at its origin. This includes paralysis and associated loss of sensation. The second column (category) is used when there is only a complete loss of sensation. A rating cannot be taken from both columns for the same peripheral nerve condition.
For peripheral nerve conditions not included in Table 20.5 (e.g. incomplete loss of function of a peripheral nerve or loss of sensation in a "glove" or "stocking" distribution) a rating may be applicable from Table 17.1 - Loss of Function - Upper Limb or Table 17.9 - Loss of Function - Lower Limb.
In cases where the same limb is affected by both a complete loss of a nerve's function at its origin and a condition which is rated from Table 17.1 - Loss of Function - Upper Limb or Table 17.9 - Loss of Function - Lower Limb, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes. The Table 20.5 rating is compared to the Table 17.1 or the Table 17.9 rating and the highest selected. For example, an entitled complete transection of the left ulnar nerve and an entitled complex regional pain syndrome of the left hand both require a rating. A rating for the complete transection of the left ulnar nerve is taken from Table 20.5 and a rating is taken from Table 17.1 for the complex regional pain syndrome of the left hand. The ratings are compared and the highest selected. The conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
In cases where the same limb is affected by two or more complete losses of nerve function, a rating is selected for each nerve. The individual ratings are added and the conditions bracketed for assessment purposes.
For peripheral nerve conditions that cannot be rated in Table 20.5, Table 17.1 or Table 17.9, a rating will be determined based on individual merits.
Note: Only one rating for each upper limb or for the lower limbs as a functional unit may be obtained from Table 17.1 and 17.9 respectively, regardless of the number of entitled musculoskeletal or neurological conditions rated within these tables.
If more than one musculoskeletal or neurological condition is rated from these tables, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
In cases of peripheral motor, sensory or mixed polyneuropathy which affects the function of both the upper and lower limbs, a rating is not obtained from this chapter or from Chapter 17, Musculoskeletal Impairment. The impairment is rated from Chapter 19, Activities of Daily Living.
If a Member/Veteran/Client has impairment of autonomic function associated with a peripheral neuropathy (e.g. voiding dysfunction) or has a permanent complication from peripheral neuropathy (e.g. Charcot's joint), a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
When entitled conditions of the peripheral nerves result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Table 20.4 - Loss of Function - Cranial Nerves
More than one rating may be applicable for each entitled unilateral or bilateral cranial nerve condition from Table 20.4. If more than one rating is applicable for an entitled condition, the ratings are added.
Note: Where applicable, Table 20.4 indicates the appropriate chapter or table to be used for rating cranial nerve conditions.
If partial losses exist, the ratings are to be reduced proportionately.
Cranial Nerve | Function | Apply | Complete Unilateral Loss Rating | Complete Bilateral Loss Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
I (olfactory) |
Smell |
NIL |
4 |
|
II (optic) |
Vision |
Chapter 8 | ||
III, IV, VI (oculomotor, trochlear, abducens) |
Eye Movement |
Chapter 8 | ||
V (trigeminal) |
Opthalmic Division (sensory) |
4 |
9 |
|
Maxillary Division (sensory) |
4 |
9 |
||
Mandibular Division (sensory) |
4 |
9 |
||
Chewing |
Chapter 14 | |||
Speech |
Table 20.2 | |||
VII (facial) |
Taste |
NIL |
4 |
|
Facial Expression |
9 |
18 |
||
Chewing |
Chapter 14 | |||
Speech |
Table 20.2 | |||
VIII (vestibulocochlear) |
Hearing |
Chapter 9 | ||
Balance |
Chapter 9 | |||
IX, X, XI, XII (glossopharyngeal, vagus, spinal accessory, hypoglossal) |
Swallowing |
Table 20.9 | ||
Speech |
Table 20.2 | |||
XI (spinal accessory) |
Shoulder elevation/head rotation |
4 |
9 |
Refer to Chart 1 for a description of the effects of a complete loss of function of a cranial nerve.
Steps to Determine Cranial Nerve Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.4 (Loss of Function-Cranial Nerves).
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add the ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Table 20.5 - Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerves
Only one rating may be given for each entitled unilateral peripheral nerve condition from Table 20.5.
In cases where the same limb is affected by two or more complete losses of nerve function, a rating is selected for each nerve. The individual ratings are added and the conditions bracketed for assessment purposes.
Note: A rating cannot be taken from both columns for the same peripheral nerve condition.
Peripheral Nerve | Rating - Complete Unilateral Loss of Function (Motor and Sensation) | Rating - Complete Unilateral Loss of Function (Sensation Only) |
---|---|---|
Greater Auricular |
N/A |
1 |
Brachial Plexus: Upper Trunk (C5 and C6) |
34 |
N/A |
Brachial Plexus: Middle Trunk (C7) |
34 |
N/A |
Brachial Plexus: Lower Trunk (C8, T1) |
34 |
N/A |
Full Brachial Plexus (C5, C6, C7, C8, and T1) |
65 |
N/A |
Radial |
43 |
2 |
Median |
34 |
13 |
Ulnar |
26 |
4 |
Musculocutaneous Nerve of the Arm |
13 |
2 |
Axillary |
18 |
2 |
Long Thoracic |
4 |
N/A |
Sciatic |
51 |
9 |
Femoral |
18 |
4 |
Obturator |
4 |
NIL |
Common Peroneal |
18 |
4 |
Superficial Peroneal |
9 |
3 |
Deep Peroneal |
13 |
NIL |
Tibial |
18 |
4 |
Posterior Femoral Cutaneous |
N/A |
4 |
Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of the Thigh |
N/A |
4 |
Ilioinguinal |
NIL |
4 |
Refer to Chart 2 for a description of the effects of a complete loss of function of a peripheral nerve.
For peripheral nerve conditions that cannot be rated in Table 20.5, Table 17.1 or Table 17.9, a rating will be determined based on individual merits.
Steps to Determine Peripheral Nerve Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.5 (Loss of Function - Peripheral Nerve).
Note: A rating cannot be taken from both columns of Table 20.5 for the same peripheral nerve condition.
If the same limb is affected by two or more complete losses of peripheral nerve function, a rating is selected for each nerve. The individual ratings are added and the conditions bracketed.
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Note: If entitled bilateral peripheral nerve conditions require assessment, the steps must be repeated.
Chart 1 - Chart of Cranial Nerve Function
Chart 1 describes what functions are affected as a result of a complete loss of a cranial nerve's function at its origin, unless otherwise specified.
Chart 1 may be used as reference for rating loss of function of cranial nerves.
Cranial Nerve | Functions Affected |
---|---|
I Olfactory |
|
II Optic |
|
III Oculomotor |
|
IV Trochlear |
|
V Trigeminal |
|
VI Abducens |
|
VII Facial |
|
VIII Vestibulocochlear (Acoustic) (Auditory) |
|
IX Glossopharyngeal |
|
X Vagus |
|
XI Spinal Accessory |
|
XII Hypoglossal |
|
Chart 2 - Chart of Peripheral Nerve Function
Chart 2 describes what functions are affected as a result of complete loss of a peripheral nerve's function at its origin, unless otherwise specified.
Chart 2 may be used as a reference for rating loss of function of peripheral nerves.
Peripheral Nerve | Functions Affected |
---|---|
Brachial plexus: (Erb Duchene palsy or waiter's tip) |
|
Brachial Plexus: |
|
Brachial Plexus: (Klumpke's palsy) |
|
Radial (musculospiral) |
|
Median |
|
Ulnar |
|
Musculocutaneous nerve of the arm |
|
Axillary (circumflex) |
|
Long thoracic |
|
Sciatic |
|
Femoral (anterior crural) |
|
Obturator |
|
Common Peroneal (external popliteal) |
|
Superficial Peroneal (musculocutaneous nerve of the leg) |
|
Deep Peroneal (anterior tibial) |
|
Tibial (posterior tibial internal popliteal) |
|
Posterior Femoral Cutaneous (small sciatic nerve) |
|
Lateral Cutaneous nerve of the thigh |
|
Ilioinguinal |
|
Section 3 - Determining Impairment Assessments of Seizure Disorders, Narcolepsy and Cataplexy, Headache Conditions and Miscellaneous Neurological Conditions
The tables used to rate impairment from seizure disorders, narcolepsy and cataplexy, headache conditions and miscellaneous neurological conditions are:
Table | Loss of Function | Other Impairment |
---|---|---|
Table 20.6 | Other Impairment - Seizures | This table is used to rate impairment from seizure disorders - major and minor. |
Table 20.7 | Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy | This table is used to rate impairment from narcolepsy and cataplexy. |
Table 20.8 | Other Impairment - Headaches | This table is used to rate impairment from headache conditions. |
Table 20.9 | Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological | This table is used to rate impairment from miscellaneous neurological conditions. |
Other Impairment - Seizures
Table 20.6 is used to rate impairment from seizure disorders. Only one rating may be selected. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
If more than one type of seizure disorder is to be rated from Table 20.6, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
When entitled seizure disorders result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy
Table 20.7 is used to rate impairment from narcolepsy and cataplexy. Only one rating may be selected. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
When entitled narcolepsy and cataplexy disorders result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Other Impairment - Headaches
Table 20.8 is used to rate impairment from headache conditions. Only one rating may be selected. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
If more than one type of headache is to be rated from Table 20.8, the conditions are bracketed for assessment purposes.
When rating migraine headaches, common auras such as scotomas and flashing lights are considered to be included in the Table 20.8 rating. Migraine headaches associated with transient neurological deficits including but not limited to hemiplegia, dysarthria and ocular muscle weakness are rated on individual merits.
When entitled headache conditions result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological Conditions
Table 20.9 is used to rate impairment from miscellaneous neurological conditions. One rating may be selected for each entitled condition. If more than one rating is applicable for an entitled condition, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
When entitled miscellaneous neurological conditions result in permanent impairment of other organ systems, a consequential entitlement decision is required. If awarded, the resulting impairment of that organ system(s) will be rated using the applicable body system specific table(s).
If non-entitled conditions or conditions rated within another chapter/table of the Table of Disabilities are contributing to the overall impairment, then the Partially Contributing Table (PCT) must be applied to arrive at the rating which is due to the entitled condition(s) rated within this table.
Table 20.6 - Loss of Function - Seizures
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.6. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.6, follow the "ands" and "ors".
Rating | Criteria |
---|---|
Nil |
|
Four |
|
Nine |
|
Eighteen |
|
Thirty-five |
|
Fifty |
|
Eighty-five |
|
* A major seizure is characterized by generalized tonic-clonic convulsion with unconsciousness.
** A minor seizure is characterized by a brief interruption in consciousness or conscious control associated with staring, rhythmic eye blinking, or head nodding, or sudden jerking movements of the limbs and/or head, or sudden loss of postural control.
Steps to Determine Seizure Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.6 (Other Impairment - Seizures).
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add the ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Table 20.7 - Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.7. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.7, follow the "ands" and "ors".
Rating | Criteria |
---|---|
Four |
|
Nine |
|
Thirteen |
|
Eighteen |
|
Steps to Determine Narcolepsy/Cataplexy Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.7 (Other Impairment - Narcolepsy and Cataplexy).
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add the ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Table 20.8 - Loss of Function - Headaches
Only one rating may be given from Table 20.8. If more than one rating is applicable, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.8, follow the "ands" and "ors".
Rating | Criteria |
---|---|
Two |
|
Four |
|
Nine |
|
Thirteen |
|
Migraine headaches associated with transient neurological deficits including but not limited to hemiplegia, dysarthria and ocular muscle weakness is rated on individual merits.
Steps to Determine Headache Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.8 (Other Impairment - Headaches).
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add the ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Table 20.9 - Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological
Only one rating may be given for each entitled condition from Table 20.9. If more than one rating is applicable for an entitled condition, the ratings are compared and the highest selected.
Each bullet (•) represents one criterion. In order for a rating to be established for Table 20.9, only one criterion must be met at a level of impairment for that rating to be selected.
Table 20.9 - Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological
Rating | Criteria |
---|---|
Four |
|
Nine |
|
Thirteen |
|
Thirty-four |
|
Seventy-one |
|
* Trigeminal neuralgia with intractable pain (severe, persistent, ongoing pain that is unresponsive to the usual treatment modalities) is rated on individual merits.
Steps to Determine Miscellaneous Neurological Assessment
- Step 1: Determine the rating from Table 20.9 (Other Impairment - Miscellaneous Neurological).
- Step 2: Does the Partially Contributing Table apply? If yes, then apply to rating at Step 1.
- Step 3: Determine the Quality of Life rating.
- Step 4: Add the ratings at Step 2 and Step 3.
- Step 5: If partial entitlement exists, apply to the rating at Step 4.
This is the Disability Assessment.
Note: If more than one entitled condition requires rating from Table 20.9, the steps must be repeated.