Papillary necrosis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7538)

The VA rates Papillary necrosis under Diagnostic Code 7538 at the following tiers: 0%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Rate as renal dysfunction.. The maximum 0% rating requires: Rate as renal dysfunction..

Diagnostic Code 7538 is the VA rating identifier for Papillary necrosis 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 maximum rating for Papillary necrosis is defined in 38 CFR Part 4 under DC 7538. See the rating tiers above for exact criteria.

Papillary necrosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7538. 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 Papillary necrosis 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 Papillary necrosis 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.