Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)
Recurrent kidney stones are rated under DC 7508. Frequent stone formation requiring procedures more than twice a year rates 30 percent; otherwise stones are rated like hydronephrosis (10-30 percent) based on how often colic attacks occur and whether infection or drainage is involved.
How the VA rates it
DC 7508 (nephrolithiasis/ureterolithiasis/nephrocalcinosis) assigns a flat 30 percent when recurrent stone formation requires invasive or non-invasive procedures (lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, stent placement, surgery) more than two times per year. Otherwise, stones are rated as hydronephrosis (DC 7509): 10 percent for occasional colic attacks, 20 percent for frequent attacks requiring catheter drainage, 30 percent for frequent attacks with infection and impaired kidney function. Severe cases with reduced kidney function are instead rated as renal dysfunction under 38 CFR 4.115a, which runs up to 100 percent based on GFR and dialysis need.
Rating criteria by percentage
Rated up to 30%Recurrent stone formation requiring invasive or non-invasive procedures (such as lithotripsy or ureteroscopy) more than two times per year; or, rated as hydronephrosis, frequent attacks of colic with infection (pyonephrosis) and impaired kidney function.
Rated as hydronephrosis: frequent attacks of colic requiring catheter drainage.
Rated as hydronephrosis: only an occasional attack of colic, without infection and not requiring catheter drainage.
Secondary condition strategy
Commonly claimed secondary to this
Conditions veterans often develop from this one — each can be its own rating under 38 CFR 3.310.
- Urinary Frequency / Voiding Dysfunction — Stone-related obstruction, strictures, or recurrent infections can produce voiding dysfunction, ratable separately if symptoms are distinct.
This is often secondary to
If you already have one of these service-connected, it may support connecting this condition.
- Hyperparathyroidism — Kidney stones are a recognized chronic residual of hyperparathyroidism (DC 7904) and certain calcium metabolism disorders.
Evidence that strengthens this claim
- Count and document procedures: more than two lithotripsies/ureteroscopies per year is an automatic 30 percent - keep every operative and ER report.
- Document each colic attack (ER visits, imaging showing a passing stone) - attack frequency separates 10 from 20-30 percent.
- If labs show declining kidney function (eGFR), ask about rating as renal dysfunction instead, which can rate far higher than 30 percent.
- A 24-hour urine study or metabolic workup showing you are a recurrent stone former supports the 'recurrent stone formation' element.
Related diagnostic codes
More genitourinary conditions
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is rated 0 percent under DC 7522 - but a 0 percent grant still matters, because service-connected ED entitles you to Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) for loss of use of a creative organ, a monthly payment on top of your other compensation.
Rated up to 0%
Urinary Frequency / Voiding Dysfunction
Urinary frequency and other voiding problems are rated under the voiding dysfunction criteria in 38 CFR 4.115a, which apply across many genitourinary codes (this entry uses DC 7542, neurogenic bladder, as the anchor). Ratings run 10-40 percent for frequency, up to 60 percent for urine leakage requiring pads, and up to 30 percent for obstructed voiding.
Rated up to 60%
Disclaimer: Valor Rating is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always review your documents carefully before submitting to the VA. For official guidance, consult an accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney.