Hyperaldosteronism

DC 7917Endocrine38 CFR 4.119, DC 7917

A condition where the adrenal glands produce excessive aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium (electrolyte abnormalities). The VA rates hyperaldosteronism based on the severity of hypertension, the degree of electrolyte disturbance, and the treatment required to manage complications.

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 7917

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.119, DC 7917. 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 hyperaldosteronism causes resistant hypertension despite three or more medications, severe electrolyte abnormalities, or end-organ damage such as cardiac arrhythmias, kidney impairment, or left ventricular hypertrophy.

What the VA looks for

Resistant hypertension despite three or more antihypertensives
Severe hypokalemia requiring IV potassium replacement
Cardiac arrhythmias documented on ECG or Holter monitor
Left ventricular hypertrophy on echocardiogram
Renal impairment documented (elevated creatinine, decreased eGFR)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting both hypertension severity and electrolyte disturbances — the VA considers both when rating. Keep records of blood pressure readings over time and all potassium lab results.
⚠Not filing for secondary hypertension separately — if your hyperaldosteronism causes hypertension (DC 7101), it may be rated as a separate secondary condition with its own percentage.
⚠Not documenting emergency room visits for severe hypokalemia or cardiac arrhythmias — these episodes demonstrate the severity of the condition and support higher ratings.
⚠Not connecting post-adrenalectomy residuals — if you had surgery to remove an adrenal adenoma, you may still have persistent blood pressure issues and electrolyte problems that warrant ongoing ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Endocrine Diseases (Other Than Thyroid, Parathyroid, or Diabetes Mellitus)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Hyperaldosteronism

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7917

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Resistant hypertension despite three or more antihypertensives
Severe hypokalemia requiring IV potassium replacement
Cardiac arrhythmias documented on ECG or Holter monitor
Left ventricular hypertrophy on echocardiogram
Renal impairment documented (elevated creatinine, decreased eGFR)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting both hypertension severity and electrolyte disturbances — the VA considers both when rating. Keep records of blood pressure readings over time and all potassium lab results.

⚠Not filing for secondary hypertension separately — if your hyperaldosteronism causes hypertension (DC 7101), it may be rated as a separate secondary condition with its own percentage.

⚠Not documenting emergency room visits for severe hypokalemia or cardiac arrhythmias — these episodes demonstrate the severity of the condition and support higher ratings.

⚠Not connecting post-adrenalectomy residuals — if you had surgery to remove an adrenal adenoma, you may still have persistent blood pressure issues and electrolyte problems that warrant ongoing ratings.