Hydronephrosis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7509)

The VA rates Hydronephrosis under Diagnostic Code 7509 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Only an occasional attack of colic, not infected and not requiring catheter drainage. The maximum 30% rating requires: Frequent attacks of colic with infection (pyonephrosis), kidney function impaired.

Diagnostic Code 7509 is the VA rating identifier for Hydronephrosis within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.115b. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Hydronephrosis under DC 7509 is 30%. This tier requires: Frequent attacks of colic with infection (pyonephrosis), kidney function impaired. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Hydronephrosis alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Hydronephrosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7509. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Hydronephrosis may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Hydronephrosis requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.