Glomerulonephritis (DC 7536)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115b

Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the glomeruli (the kidney's filtering units), which can be acute, subacute, or chronic. It includes a range of immune-mediated and metabolic kidney diseases — IgA nephropathy (Berger disease), post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, lupus nephritis, membranous nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), minimal change disease, anti-GBM disease (Goodpasture), ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis, and others. Classic findings include hematuria with RBC casts or dysmorphic RBCs, proteinuria, 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 glomerulonephritis 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 glomerulonephritis 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 glomerulonephritis 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 glomerulonephritis 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. The (a) urinary casts criterion is particularly relevant for glomerulonephritis — RBC casts and dysmorphic RBCs in urine are a classic finding.

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.