Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

DC 7340Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7340

The formation of gallstones in the gallbladder, causing episodes of biliary colic (severe right upper quadrant pain), nausea, and potential complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or bile duct obstruction. The VA rates cholelithiasis based on the frequency and severity of biliary colic attacks and associated complications.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7340

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7340. 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 moderate to severe cholelithiasis with frequent attacks of biliary colic, recurrent cholecystitis, or complications such as common bile duct stones or pancreatitis. You may require significant dietary restrictions.

What the VA looks for

Frequent biliary colic attacks
Recurrent cholecystitis episodes
Complications such as choledocholithiasis or pancreatitis
Significant dietary restrictions prescribed
Hospitalizations for gallbladder-related complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode of biliary colic — keep records of every ER visit, urgent care visit, or physician encounter for gallbladder attacks. The frequency of episodes determines the rating.
⚠Not filing for residuals after cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) — post-cholecystectomy syndrome causes ongoing diarrhea, bile reflux, and abdominal discomfort that is rated 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 — pancreatitis, bile duct obstruction, and cholangitis resulting from gallstones support a higher rating or separate secondary conditions.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gallbladder and Pancreas Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7340

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Frequent biliary colic attacks
Recurrent cholecystitis episodes
Complications such as choledocholithiasis or pancreatitis
Significant dietary restrictions prescribed
Hospitalizations for gallbladder-related complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode of biliary colic — keep records of every ER visit, urgent care visit, or physician encounter for gallbladder attacks. The frequency of episodes determines the rating.

⚠Not filing for residuals after cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) — post-cholecystectomy syndrome causes ongoing diarrhea, bile reflux, and abdominal discomfort that is rated 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 — pancreatitis, bile duct obstruction, and cholangitis resulting from gallstones support a higher rating or separate secondary conditions.