Testis, atrophy complete (DC 7523)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115b

Complete testicular atrophy is the shrinkage and loss of function of one or both testicles, with permanent loss of testosterone production and spermatogenesis. Causes include traumatic injury, prior infection (mumps orchitis, severe epididymitis), torsion with delayed treatment, prior surgery, prior radiation, chemotherapy, and chronic varicocele. The VA rates this condition under 38 CFR § 4.115b: 20% for atrophy of BOTH testes, 0% for atrophy of ONE testis. In addition to the schedular rating, complete atrophy of one or both testes constitutes loss of use of a creative organ and qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) under 38 USC 1114(k) — a flat monthly payment that adds to the schedular rating.

Rating levels

  • 20% — You qualify for 20% if BOTH testes have undergone complete atrophy — meaning both testicles have shrunk to the point of no longer functioning. Complete atrophy involves total loss of testicular tissue function (no testosterone production, no spermatogenesis). The 20% rating applies when both testes are atrophied; a single atrophied testis is rated at 0% but may still qualify for SMC-K (see note).
  • 0% — You qualify for 0% if ONE testis has undergone complete atrophy with the other still functional. This is a non-compensable rating under the schedule, but the loss of use of a creative organ from a single atrophied testis still qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation under SMC-K (see note below).
  • -1% — Even though one atrophied testis is rated at 0% on the schedule, the VA treats loss of use of a creative organ (testis) as qualifying for SMC-K — a separate flat monthly payment under 38 USC 1114(k). SMC-K is paid IN ADDITION to whatever schedular rating you have (it does not replace it). SMC-K applies to BOTH the 0% (one testis) and 20% (both testes) tiers — file for SMC-K with the rating claim. The 2026 SMC-K rate is published in the SMC-K reference (DC 7523 is one of the most common pathways to SMC-K).

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.