Chronic Epididymitis

DC 7525Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7525

Chronic inflammation of the epididymis, the tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. The VA rates chronic epididymitis based on whether it has resolved or requires ongoing treatment. If urinary tract infection symptoms are the main problem, it may be rated under urinary tract infection criteria instead.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7525

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7525. 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 chronic epididymitis that keeps coming back or requires ongoing treatment such as antibiotics or pain management.

What the VA looks for

Chronic or recurrent epididymitis documented
Ongoing antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment
Frequent recurrences documented in medical records
Scrotal ultrasound showing chronic changes
Impact on daily activities and work

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every recurrence of epididymitis with your doctor — the VA needs to see a pattern of chronic or recurring episodes to support an ongoing rating.
⚠Not connecting epididymitis to service — infections from military hygiene conditions, STIs contracted during service, or physical trauma to the groin during training or duty should be clearly documented.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — chronic testicular pain can cause depression, sexual dysfunction, and sleep problems that may each be separately rated.
⚠Not asking your doctor to document whether urinary tract infection symptoms are present — if UTI symptoms predominate, the condition may be rated under the UTI criteria which can support a higher rating.
⚠Not reporting the full impact on your daily life — chronic groin or testicular pain that affects sitting, walking, physical activity, and work should be described in your medical records and personal statements.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Male Reproductive Organ Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Chronic Epididymitis or rated under the same body system.

Erectile Dysfunction

DC 7522·Genitourinary

Chronic Kidney Disease (Renal Insufficiency)

DC 7502·Genitourinary

Urinary Incontinence

DC 7542·Genitourinary

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

DC 7527·Genitourinary

Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)

DC 7508·Genitourinary

Chronic Urinary Tract Infection

DC 7512·Genitourinary

Overactive Bladder

DC 7517·Genitourinary

Prostate Cancer

DC 7528·Genitourinary

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Epididymitis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7525

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have chronic epididymitis that keeps coming back or requires ongoing treatment such as antibiotics or pain management.

What the VA looks for

Chronic or recurrent epididymitis documented
Ongoing antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment
Frequent recurrences documented in medical records
Scrotal ultrasound showing chronic changes
Impact on daily activities and work

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every recurrence of epididymitis with your doctor — the VA needs to see a pattern of chronic or recurring episodes to support an ongoing rating.

⚠Not connecting epididymitis to service — infections from military hygiene conditions, STIs contracted during service, or physical trauma to the groin during training or duty should be clearly documented.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — chronic testicular pain can cause depression, sexual dysfunction, and sleep problems that may each be separately rated.

⚠Not asking your doctor to document whether urinary tract infection symptoms are present — if UTI symptoms predominate, the condition may be rated under the UTI criteria which can support a higher rating.

⚠Not reporting the full impact on your daily life — chronic groin or testicular pain that affects sitting, walking, physical activity, and work should be described in your medical records and personal statements.