Kidney disease decisions — 2001

The Board found that the appellant does not meet the criteria for special monthly pension benefits based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person, as he is not helpless or blind, nor so nearly helpless or blind as to require such assistance. The RO has also awarded a 30 percent rating for mood disorder, 10 percent ratings for hypertension and enlarged prostate with nocturia, and noncompensable ratings for bronchitis and gastritis/pancreatitis.

The Board has determined that the veteran's renal calculus condition, which was previously rated at 20 percent, is now rated at 10 percent due to improvement in symptoms and no more than mild with occasional attacks of colic. The claim for restoration of the prior 20 percent rating is denied.

The Board has determined that the veteran's cause of death, advanced renal cell carcinoma, was related to his exposure to Agent Orange during service. The appellant is also granted eligibility for dependents' educational assistance.