Atherosclerotic renal disease (DC 7534)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115b

DC 7534 covers atherosclerotic renal disease, including renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the artery supplying the kidney, most often due to atherosclerotic plaque), atheroembolic renal disease (showers of cholesterol-crystal emboli from aortic plaques lodging in renal arterioles, often after vascular procedures), and large-vessel disease of the renal vasculature. These conditions reduce renal blood flow, leading to ischemic damage, hypertension, and progressive loss of filtration capacity. 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.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You qualify for 100% if your atherosclerotic renal 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 atherosclerotic renal 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 atherosclerotic renal 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 atherosclerotic renal 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: urinary casts, structural kidney abnormalities (which can include atherosclerotic changes), or proteinuria with ACR ≥ 30 mg/g.

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.