Polycystic Kidney Disease

DC 7502Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a, DC 7502

A genetic condition that causes many fluid-filled cysts to grow in your kidneys, slowly damaging them over time. The VA rates polycystic kidney disease 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 polycystic kidney disease 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)
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not tracking kidney function decline with serial lab work over time — eGFR, creatinine, and BUN trends are the most important evidence for your rating level.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — polycystic kidney disease commonly causes hypertension, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and liver cysts that may each warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not documenting how the disease affects your daily life — fatigue, pain from enlarged kidneys, and limitations on physical activity should all be in your medical records.
⚠Not getting genetic testing or detailed imaging documented — this strengthens your diagnosis and supports service connection if the condition was aggravated during service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney Conditions

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 polycystic kidney disease 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)
Precludes more than sedentary activity
Kidney transplant evaluation or performed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not tracking kidney function decline with serial lab work over time — eGFR, creatinine, and BUN trends are the most important evidence for your rating level.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — polycystic kidney disease commonly causes hypertension, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and liver cysts that may each warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not documenting how the disease affects your daily life — fatigue, pain from enlarged kidneys, and limitations on physical activity should all be in your medical records.

⚠Not getting genetic testing or detailed imaging documented — this strengthens your diagnosis and supports service connection if the condition was aggravated during service.