Cystic diseases of the kidneys (DC 7533)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115b

DC 7533 covers cystic diseases of the kidneys, including autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD, the most common inherited kidney disease), autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), medullary cystic kidney disease, nephronophthisis, simple renal cysts (when service-connected as a complication), and acquired cystic kidney disease (most common in long-term dialysis patients). Cystic diseases produce progressive loss of kidney function as cysts enlarge and displace functional tissue, often accompanied by hypertension, pain, infection, and stones. The VA rates this condition under the renal dysfunction ladder (38 CFR § 4.115a) from 0% to 100% based on GFR sustained over 3 consecutive months in the past 12 months. The 'structural kidney abnormalities' criterion at the 0% tier is particularly relevant — visible cysts on imaging count.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You qualify for 100% if your cystic kidney disease has progressed to end-stage renal disease — GFR under 15 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months, OR routine dialysis dependence, OR transplant eligibility.
  • 80% — You qualify for 80% if your cystic kidney disease is at Stage 4 chronic kidney disease — GFR 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months.
  • 60% — You qualify for 60% if your cystic kidney disease is at Stage 3b chronic kidney disease — GFR 30-44 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months.
  • 30% — You qualify for 30% if your cystic kidney disease is at Stage 3a chronic kidney disease — GFR 45-59 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months.
  • 0% — You qualify for 0% if your GFR is 60-89 mL/min/1.73 m² (Stage 2 CKD) AND you have one of three additional markers sustained for 3+ consecutive months: (a) recurrent urinary casts, (b) structural kidney abnormalities (typically the cysts themselves), OR (c) proteinuria with ACR ≥ 30 mg/g. The structural abnormalities pathway is particularly relevant for cystic diseases — visible cysts on imaging count as structural abnormalities. Recognized as service-connected but not currently producing compensable disability.

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.