Retroperitoneal Fibrosis

DC 7509Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7509

A rare condition where scar-like tissue grows behind the abdominal organs and squeezes the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This can block urine flow and damage the kidneys. The VA rates it based on how much the ureters are blocked, how well your kidneys work, and what treatment you need.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7509

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7509. 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

You have severe ureteral obstruction causing significant kidney damage. You may have had surgical ureterolysis (surgery to free the ureters from scar tissue). Your kidney function is severely reduced and you need ongoing invasive treatment.

What the VA looks for

Severe bilateral ureteral obstruction
Severely reduced kidney function (eGFR < 30)
Surgical ureterolysis operative reports
Multiple failed stent placements or surgical interventions
Chronic kidney disease stage 4 or higher from obstruction

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular imaging (CT or MRI) to document the fibrosis — the VA needs to see the extent of scar tissue and ureteral involvement. Serial imaging showing progression supports a higher rating.
⚠Not documenting the frequency of stent exchanges and procedures — each invasive procedure demonstrates the ongoing severity of your condition. Keep records of all urology visits.
⚠Not connecting retroperitoneal fibrosis to service — potential pathways include medication exposure (methysergide, beta-blockers), asbestos or chemical exposure during service, or secondary to service-connected autoimmune conditions.
⚠Not filing for kidney disease as a secondary condition — if retroperitoneal fibrosis has caused chronic kidney disease, the kidney damage may warrant a separate rating under DC 7502.
⚠Not documenting pain and functional limitations — chronic flank pain, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue from reduced kidney function all affect your daily activities and should be described in detail.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney and Urinary Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Retroperitoneal Fibrosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7509

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Severe bilateral ureteral obstruction
Severely reduced kidney function (eGFR < 30)
Surgical ureterolysis operative reports
Multiple failed stent placements or surgical interventions
Chronic kidney disease stage 4 or higher from obstruction

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular imaging (CT or MRI) to document the fibrosis — the VA needs to see the extent of scar tissue and ureteral involvement. Serial imaging showing progression supports a higher rating.

⚠Not documenting the frequency of stent exchanges and procedures — each invasive procedure demonstrates the ongoing severity of your condition. Keep records of all urology visits.

⚠Not connecting retroperitoneal fibrosis to service — potential pathways include medication exposure (methysergide, beta-blockers), asbestos or chemical exposure during service, or secondary to service-connected autoimmune conditions.

⚠Not filing for kidney disease as a secondary condition — if retroperitoneal fibrosis has caused chronic kidney disease, the kidney damage may warrant a separate rating under DC 7502.

⚠Not documenting pain and functional limitations — chronic flank pain, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue from reduced kidney function all affect your daily activities and should be described in detail.