Addison's Disease (Adrenal Insufficiency)
Addison's disease is rated under DC 7911. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones. Ratings are based on the frequency and severity of crises and episodes. A 'crisis' is a life-threatening event where blood vessels in the limbs collapse, causing extremely low blood pressure and severe shock, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, severe weakness, and risk of coma. An 'episode' is less severe with no vascular collapse but still includes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, weakness, low blood pressure, and low blood sugar. If caused by tuberculosis, the TB rating schedule is used first.
VA Rating Levels
1-2 crises in the past year, OR 2-4 episodes per year, OR weakness and fatigue, OR corticosteroid therapy required for control.
3 crises per year, OR 5 or more episodes per year.
4 or more crises per year.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →The distinction between a 'crisis' and an 'episode' matters for your rating. A crisis involves vascular collapse and is life-threatening. An episode has significant symptoms but no vascular collapse. Make sure your medical records clearly categorize each event.
- →Even if you only experience weakness and fatigue without full crises or episodes, you can still qualify for 20%. Corticosteroid therapy alone is also sufficient for a 20% rating.
- →If your Addison's disease is caused by a tuberculosis infection, it will initially be rated under the TB schedule. Once that evaluation is exhausted, you can then be rated under this schedule if Addison's disease persists.
- →Keep a detailed log of all crises and episodes, including emergency room visits and hospitalizations, as frequency is the key factor in higher ratings.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.119, Diagnostic Code 7911