Cerebral arteriosclerosis (DC 8046)

Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124a

Cerebral arteriosclerosis is hardening of the arteries in your brain, which can reduce blood flow and affect brain function. The VA rates this condition under diagnostic code 8046, but only gives ratings when it causes measurable problems with memory, attention, concentration, or executive functions (your ability to plan, organize, and make decisions). The rating scale isn't provided in the current criteria, but it's based on how severely these mental functions are impacted in your daily life.

Rating levels

  • 10% — A 10% rating (and no more) is assigned for subjective complaints such as headache, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, or irritability that are recognized as symptoms of properly diagnosed cerebral arteriosclerosis. The rating is assigned under DC 9305 (vascular dementia) rather than directly under DC 8046.
  • -1% — Specific neurological deficits caused by cerebral arteriosclerosis (such as paralysis on one side, cranial nerve damage, or loss of speech) are rated under whichever diagnostic code matches the specific deficit, not under DC 8046.
  • -1% — A diagnosis of cerebral arteriosclerosis must be supported by the full clinical picture (symptoms, imaging, neurological findings). Retinal artery findings alone are not sufficient to apply this rating.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.