Urethral Stricture

DC 7518Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7518

Narrowing of the urethra from scar tissue, often caused by catheterization, infections, or injuries during service. Causes difficulty urinating, weak stream, and frequent UTIs.

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 7518

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7518. 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 require continuous catheterization or an appliance due to severe urethral stricture.

What the VA looks for

Continuous catheterization or appliance required
Absorbent materials changed more than 4 times per day
Severe voiding dysfunction documented
Significant impact on employment and daily functioning
Ongoing urological management records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting catheterization history during service — prior catheterizations are a leading cause of urethral stricture and establish the service connection.
⚠Not getting urodynamic testing or cystoscopy — these objective tests prove the stricture and its severity.
⚠Not tracking voiding frequency with a voiding diary — the rating depends on specific voiding intervals and absorbent material changes.
⚠Not connecting to in-service infections or procedures that caused scarring — STIs, catheterizations, and urological procedures during service are all potential causes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney and Urinary Tract Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Urethral Stricture or rated under the same body system.

Erectile Dysfunction

DC 7522·Genitourinary

Chronic Kidney Disease (Renal Insufficiency)

DC 7502·Genitourinary

Urinary Incontinence

DC 7542·Genitourinary

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

DC 7527·Genitourinary

Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)

DC 7508·Genitourinary

Chronic Urinary Tract Infection

DC 7512·Genitourinary

Overactive Bladder

DC 7517·Genitourinary

Prostate Cancer

DC 7528·Genitourinary

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7518

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You require continuous catheterization or an appliance due to severe urethral stricture.

What the VA looks for

Continuous catheterization or appliance required
Absorbent materials changed more than 4 times per day
Severe voiding dysfunction documented
Significant impact on employment and daily functioning
Ongoing urological management records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting catheterization history during service — prior catheterizations are a leading cause of urethral stricture and establish the service connection.

⚠Not getting urodynamic testing or cystoscopy — these objective tests prove the stricture and its severity.

⚠Not tracking voiding frequency with a voiding diary — the rating depends on specific voiding intervals and absorbent material changes.

⚠Not connecting to in-service infections or procedures that caused scarring — STIs, catheterizations, and urological procedures during service are all potential causes.