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Neuralgia, ninth cranial nerve
Diagnostic code 8409 · Neurological conditions and convulsive disorders · 38 CFR 4.124a
VA has proposed changing these rules
The proposal (89 FR 88917, published November 12, 2024) is not in effect. The rules on this page still apply until VA publishes a final rule.
Read the proposal in the Federal RegisterRating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.124a. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
Printed at the start of this table in the regulation:
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Disability from lesions of peripheral portions of first, second, third, fourth, sixth, and eighth nerves will be rated under the Organs of Special Sense. The ratings for the cranial nerves are for unilateral involvement; when bilateral, combine but without the bilateral factor. |
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 8409 Neuralgia. |
Rated on the scale for diagnostic code 8209: Ninth (glossopharyngeal), paralysis
The regulation rates neuritis and neuralgia of a nerve on the scale for paralysis of the same nerve, with the limits in 38 CFR 4.124, quoted here:
Neuralgia, cranial or peripheral, characterized usually by a dull and intermittent pain, of typical distribution so as to identify the nerve, is to be rated on the same scale, with a maximum equal to moderate incomplete paralysis. See nerve involved for diagnostic code number and rating. Tic douloureux, or trifacial neuralgia, may be rated up to complete paralysis of the affected nerve.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 8209 Paralysis of: | |
| Complete | 30 |
| Incomplete, severe | 20 |
| Incomplete, moderate | 10 |
| Note: Dependent upon relative loss of ordinary sensation in mucous membrane of the pharynx, fauces, and tonsils. |
Related codes in the regulation
- 8209 Ninth (glossopharyngeal), paralysisRated using
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.124a, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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