Kidney damage caused by narrowing or blockage of the renal arteries due to plaque buildup.
Because the ratings hinge on GFR values held over time, lab records are the most important evidence. VA accepts GFR, estimated GFR (eGFR), and creatinine-based GFR approximations when calculated by a medical professional, so serial lab reports showing those values across at least 3 consecutive months carry significant weight.
For the 100% level, records confirming dialysis schedules or documentation of transplant eligibility would directly support the criteria. For the 80%, 60%, and 30% levels, repeated GFR or eGFR results spanning 3 or more consecutive months within the past year are key. For the 0% level, urinalysis reports showing RBC, WBC, or granular casts; imaging or biopsy records documenting structural kidney abnormalities; or lab results showing an ACR of 30 mg/g or higher — each sustained over the required period — would match the criteria.
If your condition also causes voiding problems or urinary tract infections that are separate from the kidney function loss itself, those symptoms may be evaluated on their own under the same rating section, provided the symptoms do not overlap.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
