IgA Nephropathy

DC 7502Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a, DC 7502

An autoimmune kidney disease where IgA antibodies build up in your kidneys and cause damage over time. The VA rates IgA nephropathy based on how much kidney function you have lost and what treatment you need.

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, 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 IgA nephropathy requires regular dialysis or prevents you from doing more than light seated activity due to severely reduced kidney function.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function (eGFR < 15)
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed
Precludes more than sedentary activity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a kidney biopsy to confirm the IgA nephropathy diagnosis — the biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis and significantly strengthens your claim.
⚠Not connecting the condition to service-related triggers — infections, physical stressors, and environmental exposures during service can trigger or worsen IgA nephropathy.
⚠Not tracking kidney function decline with serial lab work — eGFR, creatinine, BUN, and urine protein/albumin ratios over time are the most important evidence.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — IgA nephropathy commonly causes hypertension, anemia, and edema that may each warrant separate ratings.

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…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7502

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your IgA nephropathy requires regular dialysis or prevents you from doing more than light seated activity due to severely reduced kidney function.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function (eGFR < 15)
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed
Precludes more than sedentary activity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a kidney biopsy to confirm the IgA nephropathy diagnosis — the biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis and significantly strengthens your claim.

⚠Not connecting the condition to service-related triggers — infections, physical stressors, and environmental exposures during service can trigger or worsen IgA nephropathy.

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

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — IgA nephropathy commonly causes hypertension, anemia, and edema that may each warrant separate ratings.