Diagnostic Code 7917 · 38 CFR §4.119
Hyperaldosteronism (Conn syndrome) is excess production of aldosterone, most commonly from a benign adrenal adenoma or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. It causes resistant high blood pressure, low potassium levels, muscle weakness, and fatigue. It is a frequently overlooked cause of difficult-to-control hypertension. Veterans may develop this condition from adrenal tumors or from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| See pathways% | DC 7917 has no native percentage scale. The VA evaluates hyperaldosteronism (Conn syndrome) as either a malignant or benign neoplasm. Malignant adrenal tumors are rated under DC 7914 — 100% mandatory during treatment, then residuals. Benign tumors are rated under DC 7915, which means residuals are evaluated by the hormonal effects (hypertension under DC 7101, hypokalemia symptoms). |
Lab tests showing elevated aldosterone with suppressed renin confirm the diagnosis. CT scan of the adrenal glands identifies the tumor. Adrenal vein sampling may be needed to localize the source. Blood pressure records showing resistant hypertension document the severity. Potassium levels showing chronic depletion support the claim. Treatment records demonstrate management complexity.
Hyperaldosteronism is a specific endocrine cause of hypertension — the excess aldosterone directly drives the high blood pressure. Regular essential hypertension has no identified cause. The distinction matters because hyperaldosteronism is rated as a neoplasm under DC 7917, and the resulting hypertension and organ damage are each rated under their own codes, potentially yielding a higher combined rating than hypertension alone.
If caused by a single adrenal adenoma, surgical removal cures the excess aldosterone in most cases. However, some veterans have bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, which is managed with lifelong medication rather than surgery. Even after successful surgery, residual hypertension or organ damage may persist and remain ratable under their own codes.