Interstitial nephritis, including gouty nephropathy, disorders of calcium metabolism (DC 7537)

Body system: Genitourinary SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.115b

DC 7537 covers chronic interstitial nephritis — inflammation of the tubules and supporting interstitial tissue of the kidney. Causes include gouty nephropathy (uric-acid-crystal deposition in the renal interstitium from chronic hyperuricemia and gout), disorders of calcium metabolism (hypercalcemia, nephrocalcinosis, distal renal tubular acidosis), chronic drug-induced interstitial nephritis (NSAIDs, antibiotics, lithium), autoimmune interstitial nephritis, and chronic infection. 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 condition 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 condition 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 condition 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 condition 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.