Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115bDBQ: DBQ GU Kidney
Chronic nephritis is long-term inflammation of the kidneys, including glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the filtering units), interstitial nephritis (inflammation of the tubules and surrounding tissue), and pyelonephritis-derived chronic damage. Causes include autoimmune disease (lupus, IgA nephropathy), prior infection, toxic exposures, and unknown idiopathic causes. The VA rates this condition under the renal dysfunction ladder (38 CFR § 4.115a) from 0% to 100% based on Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) sustained over 3 consecutive months in the past 12 months. End-stage disease requiring dialysis or transplant warrants 100%. Stage 2 CKD with proteinuria or abnormal urine findings warrants 0% (compensable only at higher tiers).
Rating levels
- 100% — You qualify for 100% if your nephritis has progressed to end-stage renal disease — Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) under 15 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year, OR routine dialysis dependence, OR eligibility for a kidney transplant. Any one of these three pathways qualifies.
- 80% — You qualify for 80% if your nephritis has progressed to Stage 4 chronic kidney disease — GFR of 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year.
- 60% — You qualify for 60% if your nephritis is at Stage 3b chronic kidney disease — GFR of 30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year.
- 30% — You qualify for 30% if your nephritis is at Stage 3a chronic kidney disease — GFR of 45 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year.
- 0% — You qualify for 0% if your GFR is 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m² (Stage 2 CKD, mildly reduced kidney function) AND you have one of three additional markers sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year: (a) recurrent RBC casts, WBC casts, or granular casts in your urine, OR (b) structural kidney abnormalities (cystic, obstructive, or glomerular changes), OR (c) albumin/creatinine ratio of 30 mg/g or higher (proteinuria). The condition is recognized as service-connected but is not currently producing compensable disability.