Hyperparathyroidism

DC 7904Endocrine38 CFR 4.119, DC 7904

A condition where the parathyroid glands make too much parathyroid hormone, causing high calcium levels, bone loss, and kidney problems. The VA rates hyperparathyroidism based on symptoms, treatment needed, and 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 7904

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.119, DC 7904. 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 hyperparathyroidism causes severe organ involvement — kidney failure, severe bone disease, or cardiovascular complications that prevent you from working.

What the VA looks for

Severe renal involvement or renal failure
Severe skeletal disease with multiple fractures
Cardiovascular complications (cardiac arrhythmia)
Precludes employment
Frequent hospitalizations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular DEXA bone density scans — bone loss from excess parathyroid hormone is a key complication that supports higher ratings and may warrant a separate osteoporosis rating.
⚠Not documenting kidney stones and kidney function tests — renal complications are a major factor in rating severity.
⚠Not connecting hyperparathyroidism to military service — head/neck radiation exposure, calcium metabolism disorders, and other service-related causes should be documented.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — kidney stones, osteoporosis, depression, and cardiovascular problems caused by hyperparathyroidism may each be separately ratable.

Related DBQ Forms

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

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

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

Diabetes Mellitus Type II

DC 7913·Endocrine

Hypothyroidism

DC 7903·Endocrine

Hyperthyroidism (Graves' Disease)

DC 7900·Endocrine

Addison's Disease (Adrenal Insufficiency)

DC 7911·Endocrine

Cushing's Syndrome

DC 7907·Endocrine

Diabetes Insipidus

DC 7909·Endocrine

Thyroid Enlargement (Nontoxic Goiter)

DC 7902·Endocrine

Hypoparathyroidism

DC 7905·Endocrine

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7904

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your hyperparathyroidism causes severe organ involvement — kidney failure, severe bone disease, or cardiovascular complications that prevent you from working.

What the VA looks for

Severe renal involvement or renal failure
Severe skeletal disease with multiple fractures
Cardiovascular complications (cardiac arrhythmia)
Precludes employment
Frequent hospitalizations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular DEXA bone density scans — bone loss from excess parathyroid hormone is a key complication that supports higher ratings and may warrant a separate osteoporosis rating.

⚠Not documenting kidney stones and kidney function tests — renal complications are a major factor in rating severity.

⚠Not connecting hyperparathyroidism to military service — head/neck radiation exposure, calcium metabolism disorders, and other service-related causes should be documented.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — kidney stones, osteoporosis, depression, and cardiovascular problems caused by hyperparathyroidism may each be separately ratable.