Kidney Tuberculosis — VA Disability Rating (DC 7505)
Diagnostic Code 7505 · 38 CFR §4.115b
What Is It?
DC 7505 covers tuberculosis (TB) of the kidney, a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis where the TB bacterium infects kidney tissue. This can cause kidney destruction, ureteral strictures, bladder involvement, and chronic kidney damage. Veterans may contract TB during military service, particularly those who served in endemic regions or in close-quarters environments where TB transmission is more likely. Renal TB is rated under the VA tuberculosis rating schedule rather than the standard renal dysfunction criteria.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active tuberculosis of the kidney. This rating continues for the duration of active disease requiring treatment. |
| 50% | Inactive renal tuberculosis, assigned for two years following the date the VA determines the condition became inactive. This accounts for the risk of reactivation. |
| 30% | Residual disability following inactive renal TB, rated based on the predominant residual symptoms such as renal dysfunction, voiding dysfunction, or urinary tract infection. |
| 0% | History of renal TB that has resolved completely with no residual kidney damage or ongoing symptoms. |
Evidence Needed
Positive TB testing (culture, PCR) confirming renal involvement is essential. Imaging showing kidney damage from TB infection supports the claim. Treatment records documenting the anti-tuberculosis medication regimen demonstrate the severity and duration. Service records establishing exposure to TB during military service connect the condition to service. Current kidney function tests assess residual damage after treatment.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring documentation of the original TB diagnosis and confirmation of renal involvement. Have records of your complete anti-TB medication course available. Describe any residual kidney problems such as pain, decreased function, or voiding changes. If the TB caused ureteral strictures or bladder damage, mention these complications. Bring current kidney function labs to document any permanent damage.
How to File
File under DC 7505 with evidence of renal tuberculosis and its connection to military service. Include TB test results, imaging, treatment records, and current kidney function labs. If the TB was acquired during service in an endemic area or from a known exposure, provide those service records. After the TB becomes inactive, file for residual conditions separately.
Common Mistakes
Not connecting TB exposure to military service conditions or deployment locations Failing to document residual kidney damage after TB treatment is complete Not claiming ureteral strictures and bladder damage caused by the TB separately Missing the two-year inactive TB rating period by not tracking dates carefully
Frequently Asked Questions
How is renal TB different from pulmonary TB for VA rating purposes?
Renal TB is rated under DC 7505 in the genitourinary section, while pulmonary TB has its own codes in the respiratory section. Both follow the TB-specific rating schedule with active disease, inactive periods, and residual ratings, but renal TB residuals are evaluated based on kidney and urinary function rather than lung function.
What happens after the TB becomes inactive?
After renal TB is determined to be inactive, you receive a rating for two years at a reduced level. After that period, the rating is based entirely on residual damage to the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and other lasting effects of the infection.
Can I get service connection for TB contracted overseas?
Yes. If you were exposed to TB during military service, especially in areas where TB is endemic, you can establish service connection. Service treatment records showing TB testing, treatment, or exposure documentation are the strongest evidence. TB can remain latent for years before reactivating in the kidneys.