Chronic Cystitis / Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome)
Chronic cystitis and painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis) are rated under DC 7512. These conditions involve chronic inflammation of the bladder, most often due to infections (cystitis) or an autoimmune-related painful bladder condition (interstitial cystitis). The condition is rated under the urinary rating system using whichever measure (frequency, obstructed voiding, or voiding dysfunction) produces the highest rating.
VA Rating Levels
Rated under urinary frequency: Must urinate every 2-3 hours during the day, or 2 times at night.
Rated under urinary frequency at 1-2 hour intervals during the day or 3-4 times at night, OR voiding dysfunction requiring absorbent materials changed once daily.
Rated under urinary frequency of less than every hour or 5+ times at night, OR voiding dysfunction requiring pad changes 2-4 times daily.
Voiding dysfunction requiring appliance use or absorbent material changes more than 4 times daily.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Interstitial cystitis (IC) can be difficult to diagnose. A cystoscopy with hydrodistention is often used for diagnosis. Make sure this procedure is documented in your records.
- →IC/painful bladder syndrome is more common in women but affects male veterans as well. It is frequently misdiagnosed as recurrent UTIs.
- →Document both the frequency of urination and any incontinence separately, as the VA will rate under whichever urinary measure produces the highest result.
- →If cystitis causes recurrent UTIs requiring hospitalization, you may also qualify under the UTI schedule. Compare both rating paths.
- →Bladder pain and urgency are key symptoms. A bladder diary tracking symptoms, frequency, and pain levels is excellent supporting evidence.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7512