D121.80Hearing & ENT

Chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction in the past 24 months

Chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction

What This Code Means

Receiving DQ code D121.80 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to chronic eustachian tube dysfunction in the past 24 months do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.

This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.

Official Regulation Text

From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)

Section 6.5.h — Ears

“Chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction as evidenced by any of these conditions in the previous 24 months: (1) More than one episode of acute otitis media, serous otitis media, or persistent middle ear effusion; (2) Pressure equalization tubes; or (3) Any atraumatic tympanic membrane rupture.”

Waiver Outlook for Hearing & ENT Conditions

Moderate Likelihooddepending on the severity and ability to function with mild impairments

Key Factors for Waiver Approval

Passing functional hearing tests and ability to hear spoken commands
No history of recurrent ear infections or significant conductive hearing loss
Comprehensive audiometric testing showing stability over time
ENT specialist letter confirming hearing loss does not impede operational duties

Documentation Tip

If your initial hearing test results seem inaccurate, you can undergo retesting at a certified audiology center at your own expense. Updated results with a specialist letter have led to reversals of disqualification.

This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →

Read Our Full Guide on Hearing & ENT Conditions

Learn how DoDMERB evaluates hearing & ent conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.

Read the hearing & ent guide