Kidney Stones — VA Disability Rating (DC 7508)
Diagnostic Code 7508 · 38 CFR §4.115b
What Is It?
DC 7508 covers nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), ureterolithiasis (ureteral stones), and nephrocalcinosis. Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits is the formation of kidney stones — hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. Passing a kidney stone causes severe pain, and stones can cause urinary obstruction, infection, and kidney damage. Veterans have higher rates of kidney stones due to dehydration during deployments, high-protein military diets, and limited water access in field conditions. The condition is often recurrent, with new stones forming over years.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Frequent attacks of colic with infection and kidney function impairment, or recurrent stone formation requiring invasive or non-invasive procedures more than two times per year. Severe cases with significant kidney damage are rated as renal dysfunction, which can provide evaluations up to 100%. |
| 20% | Frequent attacks of colic requiring catheter drainage. |
| 10% | Only occasional attacks of colic, not infected and not requiring catheter drainage. |
Evidence Needed
Imaging studies (CT scans, ultrasounds, X-rays) showing stones are essential. Records of each stone episode including ER visits document the frequency. Stone analysis reports identifying the composition guide treatment and support the claim. Records of surgical interventions (lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, stent placement) demonstrate severity. Service records showing deployment conditions contributing to dehydration establish the nexus.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe the frequency of stone episodes and their severity. Report how many ER visits and hospitalizations you have had. Explain any surgical procedures needed to remove stones. Describe the preventive measures you follow (increased fluids, dietary changes, medications). If stones have damaged your kidneys, bring kidney function test results.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing nephrolithiasis under DC 7508. Include imaging from each stone episode, ER records, and procedure records. Document the pattern of recurrence. Provide evidence of dehydration conditions during service. If stones caused kidney damage, include function tests.
Common Mistakes
Not seeking medical attention during stone episodes, losing documentation of recurrence Failing to connect stone formation to deployment dehydration conditions Not getting kidney function tested to document any cumulative damage from multiple stones
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dehydration during deployment cause kidney stones?
Yes. Dehydration is a primary risk factor for kidney stone formation. Hot deployment environments combined with limited water access, physical exertion, and high-protein field rations create ideal conditions for stone development. If your first stones appeared during or after deployment, the connection to service conditions is strong.
What if I keep getting new stones after service?
Recurrent stone formation that started during service remains service-connected even when new stones form years later. The underlying metabolic tendency was established during service. Each new episode adds to your documented disability pattern and may support a higher rating.