Renal Artery Stenosis

DC 7534Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7534

Narrowing of one or both arteries that supply blood to the kidneys. This can cause high blood pressure that is difficult to control, kidney damage, and kidney failure. Can result from atherosclerosis or fibromuscular dysplasia.

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 7534

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a/4.115b, DC 7534. 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 renal artery stenosis has caused kidney failure requiring dialysis or prevents you from performing more than sedentary activity.

What the VA looks for

Dialysis required
End-stage kidney disease
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Severe cardiovascular complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a renal artery duplex ultrasound, MRA, or CT angiography — these imaging studies objectively document the stenosis and are essential evidence.
⚠Not linking renal artery stenosis to atherosclerotic disease from service-connected conditions — if you have service-connected cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, this is commonly a secondary condition.
⚠Not claiming renovascular hypertension separately — the hypertension caused by renal artery stenosis may warrant its own rating under DC 7101 if it is not already service-connected.
⚠Not documenting the decline in kidney function over time — progressive eGFR decline and rising creatinine directly determine your rating level.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney Conditions (Nephrology)
DBQ Hypertension

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 7534

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your renal artery stenosis has caused kidney failure requiring dialysis or prevents you from performing more than sedentary activity.

What the VA looks for

Dialysis required
End-stage kidney disease
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Severe cardiovascular complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a renal artery duplex ultrasound, MRA, or CT angiography — these imaging studies objectively document the stenosis and are essential evidence.

⚠Not linking renal artery stenosis to atherosclerotic disease from service-connected conditions — if you have service-connected cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, this is commonly a secondary condition.

⚠Not claiming renovascular hypertension separately — the hypertension caused by renal artery stenosis may warrant its own rating under DC 7101 if it is not already service-connected.

⚠Not documenting the decline in kidney function over time — progressive eGFR decline and rising creatinine directly determine your rating level.