Kidney Removal (Nephrectomy) — VA Disability Rating (DC 7500)
Diagnostic Code 7500 · 38 CFR §4.115b
What Is It?
DC 7500 covers the surgical removal of one kidney (nephrectomy). Veterans may require kidney removal due to trauma during service, kidney cancer, severe infections, or other conditions that destroy kidney function. After removal, the remaining kidney takes over all filtering work, but the veteran has no backup if that kidney develops problems. The VA provides a minimum 30% rating for single kidney loss. If the remaining kidney has nephritis, infection, or other pathology, the condition is rated under the renal dysfunction criteria, which can yield higher ratings.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | GFR below 15 sustained for three consecutive months, or requiring regular dialysis, or eligible kidney transplant recipient. |
| 80% | GFR between 15 and 29 in the remaining kidney sustained for three consecutive months, indicating severe dysfunction approaching the need for dialysis. |
| 60% | GFR between 30 and 44 in the remaining kidney sustained for three consecutive months, indicating significant renal dysfunction. |
| 30% | The minimum rating after nephrectomy when the remaining kidney functions normally. Also assigned when the remaining kidney shows GFR between 45 and 59 sustained for three consecutive months. |
| 0% | GFR between 60 and 89 in the remaining kidney with abnormal urine findings sustained for at least three consecutive months, indicating early signs of dysfunction. |
Evidence Needed
The operative report documenting the nephrectomy is the primary evidence. Pathology results explain why the kidney was removed. Current kidney function tests (BUN, creatinine, GFR, urinalysis) show how the remaining kidney is performing. Service treatment records connecting the kidney loss to a service event establish the nexus. If the kidney was removed due to trauma, the incident records are important.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring current kidney function lab results. Report any symptoms of decreased kidney function in the remaining kidney: fatigue, swelling, changes in urination. Describe any dietary or activity restrictions your doctor has recommended. If the kidney removal was recent, describe the surgical recovery and any complications.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing kidney removal under DC 7500. Include the operative report, pathology results, and current kidney function tests. Provide evidence connecting the kidney loss to military service. If the remaining kidney is showing decreased function, emphasize this in the claim.
Common Mistakes
Not monitoring the remaining kidney function regularly, missing evidence of decline that would support a higher rating Failing to claim hypertension that develops from the increased workload on the remaining kidney Not connecting the original kidney condition requiring removal to military service
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum rating for kidney removal?
The minimum rating is 30% if the remaining kidney functions normally. This is a guaranteed floor — you cannot receive less than 30% for documented loss of one kidney. If the remaining kidney shows any decreased function, the rating goes higher.
Can I get special monthly compensation for kidney loss?
Loss of one kidney may qualify for special monthly compensation (SMC) under 38 USC 1114(k) for loss of a creative organ, depending on the specific circumstances. Discuss this with your veterans service representative when filing.