Ischemic heart disease decisions — 2004

The Board denied the appellant's claim as there was no evidence showing that the veteran had a service-connected disability or any disease related to his internment as a POW, which contributed to his death. The cause of death was cardio-respiratory arrest due to shock compatible with recent myocardial infarct.

The veteran's service-connected valvular disorders do not meet the criteria for a higher rating as they are not related to his current cardiovascular dysfunction, which is attributed to other conditions.

The Board is remanding the case to obtain additional medical records and ensure proper notification under the Veterans Claims Assistance Act of 2000 (VCAA). The veteran's claim for service connection remains pending.

The Board has granted service connection for the cause of the veteran's death due to ischemic heart disease and diabetes mellitus, which are presumed to have been incurred during captivity as a former POW. The appellant is also eligible for Dependents' Educational Assistance under 38 U.S.C. chapter 35.

The Board finds that additional development is required to determine the current nature and etiology of the veteran's heart disease and hypertension, as well as their relationship to service. The case will be remanded for a VA examination.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for hypercholesterolemia, chronic conjunctivitis, impaired vision, a back disorder, broken ribs, hypertension, and condyloma accuminata. The decision also granted an increased evaluation of sinusitis from February 18, 2000.

The Board has denied service connection for traumatic arthritis and peripheral neuropathy, but granted service connection for beriberi heart disease for the purpose of accrued benefits.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for multiple myeloma, Type I diabetes mellitus, nephropathy, uremia and renal artery stenosis, peripheral neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, hypertension, and coronary artery disease as due to exposure to herbicides (Agent Orange) during service.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities, including ischemic heart disease and peripheral neuropathies of all four extremities, are sufficient to meet the criteria for special monthly compensation based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for heart disease and an increased rating for low back disability, finding that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for the cause of death, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151, and Dependents' Educational Assistance under Chapter 35 of Title 38, United States Code.

The Board found that the veteran's hypertension, hypertensive heart disease, coronary artery disease, and congestive heart failure were not incurred in or aggravated by service. The effective date for service connection of bronchial asthma was denied.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has not been submitted to reopen the veteran's claims for service connection for heart disease and multiple joint pain and swelling. The claim for service connection for a bilateral leg disorder is granted.

The Board has remanded the case for further development to determine the current severity of the veteran's heart and hypertension disorders, as well as his scar, keloid, left hand condition. Additionally, a dermatology examination is needed to assess the nature and etiology of the veteran's skin disorder other than the scar on his left hand. The cervical spine and low back disability claims are also remanded for further development.

The Board has remanded the case due to a failure to provide proper VCAA notification and for consideration of additional evidence.

The Board has granted service connection for peripheral neuropathy of hands and feet, finding it likely related to exposure to cold during military service. The other claims remain pending.

The Board denied the appellant's claim to reopen her son's death cause service connection, finding that new and material evidence was not submitted.

The Board has remanded the case back to the RO for further development and compliance with directives from the CAVC.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for further development of his claims, including obtaining medical records and scheduling examinations to assess the nature and extent of his service-connected conditions.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the need for a VA examination regarding his right scapular cyst excision and an SOC on the increased rating claim for coronary artery disease.