Hypoparathyroidism — VA Disability Rating (DC 7905)
Diagnostic Code 7905 · 38 CFR §4.119
What Is It?
Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too little parathyroid hormone, causing dangerously low calcium levels. Symptoms include muscle cramps, numbness and tingling in hands and feet, seizures, and cardiac rhythm problems. The most common cause in veterans is accidental damage to the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery. It can also result from autoimmune destruction or radiation damage during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | The VA assigns 100% for three months after initial diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism. After that three-month period, the VA evaluates chronic residuals under the appropriate diagnostic codes. Residuals may include kidney stones (nephrolithiasis), cataracts, decreased renal function, and congestive heart failure, each rated under their own body system codes. |
Evidence Needed
Blood tests showing low calcium and low or absent parathyroid hormone confirm the diagnosis. Records of the event that caused the condition (surgery, radiation) establish the origin. Treatment records showing calcium and vitamin D supplementation needs demonstrate ongoing management. Emergency room records for hypocalcemic crises show the severity. After the initial three-month period, documentation of each chronic residual (kidney stones, cataracts, kidney function, heart failure) is essential for separate ratings.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe episodes of low calcium symptoms: muscle spasms, tingling, cramping, and any seizures or cardiac episodes. Report all supplements and medications with dosages. Explain how often you have breakthrough symptoms despite treatment. Describe any emergency room visits for severe hypocalcemia. Most importantly, document every chronic residual — kidney stones, cataracts, kidney function changes, and any heart problems — because these are what determine your rating after the initial three-month period.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing hypoparathyroidism under DC 7905. Include lab results showing low calcium and PTH levels. If the condition resulted from thyroid surgery during service, include those surgical records. After the initial three-month period, file separate claims for each chronic residual — the CFR specifically names kidney stones, cataracts, decreased renal function, and congestive heart failure as residuals to be rated under their own codes.
Common Mistakes
Not understanding that the 100% rating only lasts three months, after which residuals must be claimed separately Not connecting the condition to the thyroid surgery that caused it Failing to file separate claims for kidney stones, cataracts, kidney damage, and heart failure as chronic residuals Underreporting breakthrough symptoms that occur between doctor visits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hypoparathyroidism always caused by surgery?
Surgery is the most common cause, but not the only one. Autoimmune destruction, radiation damage, and genetic conditions can also cause it. For veterans, the key causes are accidental damage during thyroid surgery performed during service and radiation exposure to the neck during service.
What happens after the three-month 100% rating?
After the initial three months, the VA rates chronic residuals under their own diagnostic codes. The CFR specifically names kidney stones, cataracts, decreased renal function, and congestive heart failure as residuals to evaluate. Each is rated under the appropriate body system. Filing separate claims for every residual is essential.