VA Disability Rating for Testis Removal (DC 7524)
Diagnostic Code 7524 · 38 CFR §§4.115b
What Is It?
This diagnostic code covers the surgical removal of one or both testes due to a service-connected condition. Orchiectomy may be performed for testicular cancer, severe trauma, torsion, or chronic infection that developed during or was caused by military service. The VA rates this condition based on whether one or both testes were removed. Veterans who lose one or both testes may also qualify for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ, which provides additional monthly payments beyond the schedular disability rating.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Removal of both testes. This reflects the complete loss of testicular function including hormone production and reproductive capability. |
| 0% | Removal of one testis. While this is a noncompensable schedular rating, the veteran typically qualifies for special monthly compensation for anatomical loss of a creative organ, which provides additional payment. |
Evidence Needed
- Surgical report documenting the orchiectomy procedure
- Pathology report if removal was for cancer or other disease
- Service medical records establishing the condition was service-connected
- Hormone level testing (testosterone) showing impact of the removal
- Documentation of any prosthetic implant if applicable
C&P Exam Tips
- Bring surgical records clearly documenting which testis was removed and why
- Have recent testosterone lab results available
- Describe any symptoms from hormone changes: fatigue, mood changes, reduced strength
- If you take testosterone replacement therapy, bring medication documentation
- Ask about special monthly compensation if the examiner does not address it
How to File
File under DC 7524 with the surgical report and service medical records. Request special monthly compensation for anatomical loss of a creative organ in the same claim. If you are on testosterone replacement therapy, document the medication and any side effects. File separately for secondary conditions like hormonal deficiency and mental health impacts.
Common Mistakes
Not requesting special monthly compensation — this is the most common and costly mistake since it provides significant additional monthly payment Failing to claim hormonal deficiency as a secondary condition Not documenting mental health impacts from the anatomical loss Accepting a 0% rating for single testis removal without pursuing SMC
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is single testis removal rated at 0%?
The schedular rating for removing one testis is 0% because the remaining testis can typically compensate for hormone production. However, this does not mean you receive no compensation — veterans almost always qualify for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ, which provides a separate monthly payment that is not reflected in the percentage rating.
How much is special monthly compensation for testis removal?
SMC rates change annually. The payment for loss of a creative organ is a fixed additional amount paid on top of your regular disability compensation. Check the current VA compensation rate tables for the exact amount, as it is adjusted each year.
Can I claim both testis removal and low testosterone separately?
Yes. The anatomical loss is rated under DC 7524, while the resulting hormonal deficiency can be rated separately under the endocrine system codes. If your testosterone levels are low and you require replacement therapy, this supports a separate claim for the hormonal condition.