Glomerulonephritis

DC 7502Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7502

Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys that clean your blood. This can cause blood and protein in the urine, swelling, high blood pressure, and kidney failure. May result from infections, autoimmune conditions, or toxic exposures during military service.

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 7502

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7502. 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

Your glomerulonephritis has progressed to kidney failure requiring regular dialysis, or it prevents you from doing more than sedentary activity.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
End-stage renal disease
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function (eGFR < 15)
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a kidney biopsy report in your evidence — the biopsy confirms the specific type of glomerulonephritis and strengthens both the diagnosis and the nexus to service.
⚠Not connecting glomerulonephritis to military exposures — infections (streptococcal, hepatitis B/C), toxic exposures (contaminated water, burn pits, Agent Orange), and autoimmune conditions triggered during service can all cause glomerulonephritis.
⚠Not tracking kidney function decline with serial lab work — eGFR, creatinine, BUN, and urine protein/albumin ratios over time are the most important evidence for determining your rating level.
⚠Not claiming hypertension as a secondary condition — glomerulonephritis commonly causes high blood pressure, which should be rated separately under DC 7101.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney Conditions (Nephrology)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Glomerulonephritis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7502

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your glomerulonephritis has progressed to kidney failure requiring regular dialysis, or it prevents you from doing more than sedentary activity.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
End-stage renal disease
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function (eGFR < 15)
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a kidney biopsy report in your evidence — the biopsy confirms the specific type of glomerulonephritis and strengthens both the diagnosis and the nexus to service.

⚠Not connecting glomerulonephritis to military exposures — infections (streptococcal, hepatitis B/C), toxic exposures (contaminated water, burn pits, Agent Orange), and autoimmune conditions triggered during service can all cause glomerulonephritis.

⚠Not tracking kidney function decline with serial lab work — eGFR, creatinine, BUN, and urine protein/albumin ratios over time are the most important evidence for determining your rating level.

⚠Not claiming hypertension as a secondary condition — glomerulonephritis commonly causes high blood pressure, which should be rated separately under DC 7101.