VA Disability Rating for Toxic nephropathy (DC 7535)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115bDBQ: DBQ GU Kidney

DC 7535 covers toxic nephropathy, kidney damage from a toxic substance such as a drug or an antibiotic. The VA rates it as renal dysfunction, from 0% up to 100% by the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) sustained for at least 3 consecutive months in the past year, by recurrent urine casts or persistent proteinuria at a near-normal GFR, and by the need for regular dialysis or eligibility for a kidney transplant (38 CFR 4.115a and 4.115b). What caused the exposure is a service-connection question decided on your records, not part of the rating.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You qualify for 100% if your toxic nephropathy 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 toxic nephropathy has progressed to Stage 4 CKD — GFR 15-29 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months.
  • 60% — You qualify for 60% if your toxic nephropathy is at Stage 3b CKD — GFR 30-44 mL/min/1.73 m² sustained for 3+ consecutive months.
  • 30% — You qualify for 30% if your toxic nephropathy is at Stage 3a CKD — 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: recurrent urinary casts, structural kidney abnormalities, 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.

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