Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction

DC 7509Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7509

A blockage where the kidney connects to the ureter (the tube that drains urine to the bladder). This causes urine to back up into the kidney, which can lead to pain, infections, and kidney damage over time.

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 7509

Rating range

0% – 30%

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

Your UPJ obstruction causes severe, frequent attacks of colic with infection (pyonephrosis) and impaired kidney function requiring ongoing treatment.

What the VA looks for

Severe frequent colic with infection
Pyonephrosis documented
Impaired kidney function (elevated creatinine, reduced eGFR)
Ongoing urological intervention required
Significant impact on daily functioning

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting kidney function decline — the VA needs lab work (creatinine, BUN, eGFR) showing how the obstruction has affected kidney function over time.
⚠Not connecting UPJ obstruction to military service — if the condition was aggravated by physical demands, dehydration, or delayed treatment during service, a nexus opinion is needed.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — recurrent UTIs, kidney stones from stasis, and hypertension from kidney damage should each be claimed separately.
⚠Not requesting imaging studies (CT urogram, MAG3 renal scan) that show the obstruction and its effect on kidney drainage — these objective studies are critical evidence.

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 7509

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your UPJ obstruction causes severe, frequent attacks of colic with infection (pyonephrosis) and impaired kidney function requiring ongoing treatment.

What the VA looks for

Severe frequent colic with infection
Pyonephrosis documented
Impaired kidney function (elevated creatinine, reduced eGFR)
Ongoing urological intervention required
Significant impact on daily functioning

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting kidney function decline — the VA needs lab work (creatinine, BUN, eGFR) showing how the obstruction has affected kidney function over time.

⚠Not connecting UPJ obstruction to military service — if the condition was aggravated by physical demands, dehydration, or delayed treatment during service, a nexus opinion is needed.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — recurrent UTIs, kidney stones from stasis, and hypertension from kidney damage should each be claimed separately.

⚠Not requesting imaging studies (CT urogram, MAG3 renal scan) that show the obstruction and its effect on kidney drainage — these objective studies are critical evidence.