Kidney Cysts (Polycystic)

DC 7501Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a-4.115b, DC 7501

A condition in which numerous fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, gradually enlarging them and impairing function over time. Polycystic kidney disease can lead to kidney failure, hypertension, and chronic pain from enlarged kidneys. The VA rates this condition based on the degree of renal dysfunction.

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 7501

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a-4.115b, DC 7501. 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 polycystic kidney disease requires regular dialysis, or precludes more than sedentary activity due to severe renal dysfunction with BUN over 80mg% or creatinine over 8mg%.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
BUN over 80mg% or creatinine over 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Kidney transplant performed or pending

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not monitoring and documenting progressive kidney function decline — polycystic kidney disease worsens over time. Serial lab work (eGFR, creatinine, BUN) showing progression supports increased ratings.
⚠Not filing for secondary hypertension — kidney cysts commonly cause hypertension, which can be rated separately under DC 7101.
⚠Not documenting chronic pain from enlarged kidneys — flank pain, back pain, and abdominal discomfort from massive kidney enlargement are important functional impacts to report.
⚠Not requesting genetic testing if polycystic kidney disease runs in your family — genetic confirmation strengthens the diagnosis and can help establish service aggravation if symptoms worsened during service.

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…

Kidney Cysts (Polycystic)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7501

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your polycystic kidney disease requires regular dialysis, or precludes more than sedentary activity due to severe renal dysfunction with BUN over 80mg% or creatinine over 8mg%.

What the VA looks for

Regular dialysis required
BUN over 80mg% or creatinine over 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Kidney transplant performed or pending

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not monitoring and documenting progressive kidney function decline — polycystic kidney disease worsens over time. Serial lab work (eGFR, creatinine, BUN) showing progression supports increased ratings.

⚠Not filing for secondary hypertension — kidney cysts commonly cause hypertension, which can be rated separately under DC 7101.

⚠Not documenting chronic pain from enlarged kidneys — flank pain, back pain, and abdominal discomfort from massive kidney enlargement are important functional impacts to report.

⚠Not requesting genetic testing if polycystic kidney disease runs in your family — genetic confirmation strengthens the diagnosis and can help establish service aggravation if symptoms worsened during service.