Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

DC 7315Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7315 (rated as DC 7314)

The formation of gallstones in the gallbladder, causing episodes of biliary colic (severe right upper quadrant pain), nausea, and potential complications. As of May 19, 2024, cholelithiasis (DC 7315) is rated as chronic biliary tract disease under DC 7314 — based on how many clinically documented attacks of right upper quadrant pain with nausea and vomiting you have in a 12-month period (and whether you need dilation of a biliary stricture). For claims pending before May 19, 2024, the VA must apply whichever is more favorable.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7315

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7315 (rated as DC 7314). This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have had three or more clinically documented attacks of right upper quadrant pain with nausea and vomiting in the past 12 months, or you have needed dilation of a biliary tract stricture at least once in the past 12 months. This is the maximum rating.

What the VA looks for

Three or more clinically documented attacks in the past 12 months, OR
Dilation of a biliary tract stricture at least once in the past 12 months
ER/clinic and procedure records documenting each event

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting each biliary attack clinically documented — under DC 7314 the rating depends on how many documented attacks of right upper quadrant pain with nausea and vomiting you have in a 12-month period (1-2 = 10%, 3 or more = 30%).
⚠Not filing for residuals after cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) — post-cholecystectomy syndrome causes ongoing diarrhea, bile reflux, and abdominal discomfort that is rated separately under DC 7318.
⚠Not connecting gallstones to service-related factors — rapid weight loss during service, medications, and dietary changes during deployment can all contribute to gallstone formation.
⚠Not reporting complications separately — pancreatitis (DC 7347) or other complications from gallstones are rated as their own conditions in addition to the biliary rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gallbladder and Pancreas Conditions

See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Cholelithiasis (Gallstones) or rated under the same body system.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

DC 7206·Digestive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Hepatitis C

Crohn's Disease

Hemorrhoids

Ulcerative Colitis

Hiatal Hernia

Liver Cirrhosis

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7315

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Three or more clinically documented attacks in the past 12 months, OR
Dilation of a biliary tract stricture at least once in the past 12 months
ER/clinic and procedure records documenting each event

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting each biliary attack clinically documented — under DC 7314 the rating depends on how many documented attacks of right upper quadrant pain with nausea and vomiting you have in a 12-month period (1-2 = 10%, 3 or more = 30%).

⚠Not filing for residuals after cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) — post-cholecystectomy syndrome causes ongoing diarrhea, bile reflux, and abdominal discomfort that is rated separately under DC 7318.

⚠Not connecting gallstones to service-related factors — rapid weight loss during service, medications, and dietary changes during deployment can all contribute to gallstone formation.

⚠Not reporting complications separately — pancreatitis (DC 7347) or other complications from gallstones are rated as their own conditions in addition to the biliary rating.