Other conditions decisions — 2015

The Veteran's nodules and polyps of the vocal cords and throat are related to presumed Agent Orange exposure during active duty service, and the Board grants service connection for this condition.

The Veteran's healed fracture of the right fifth proximal metacarpal is manifested by x-ray findings of degenerative joint disease, complaints of pain, and limitation of motion. With resolution of reasonable doubt in the Veteran's favor, a 10 percent evaluation has been granted.

The appellant's countable income exceeded the allowable VA income limit for entitlement to nonservice-connected death pension, to include special monthly pension based on the need for regular aid and attendance. Therefore, the claim is denied.

The Veteran died in August 2010 and did not meet the criteria for nonservice-connected burial benefits as his death was not service connected, he had no pending claims for compensation or pension at the time of his death, and there was no indication that his remains were held by a state without a next of kin to claim them. The appeal is denied.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded to obtain updated medical records and for a new VA examination to assess the current severity of his service-connected gout.

The case is being remanded for additional development and readjudication of the issue regarding VA education benefits after March 7, 2010. The appellant's claims folder and vocational rehabilitation folder must be reviewed along with an audit of his educational assistance benefits.

The Board has determined that the decedent did not have active military, naval, or air service and therefore does not qualify for the presumption of service connection for ALS. As a result, the claim for service connection for the cause of the decedent's death is denied.

The Veteran's last pension payment was returned by his bank, and the appellant is seeking an accrued benefit. The case has been remanded for a detailed audit of the Veteran's account to determine what money was actually paid out.

The Board found no evidence to support a service connection for nerve damage of the back and burning sensation in the left groin and upper leg area, concluding that these conditions are not related to his military service.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for hairy cell leukemia and splenectomy were denied as there was no evidence of active disease or treatment phase, and the current symptoms did not warrant a higher rating.

The Board has determined that there is some medical evidence in support of the Veteran's claim, and therefore, resolves reasonable doubt in her favor. The breast cancer developed during service due to exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

The Veteran's reproductive system disorders, including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, hysterectomy, and residuals of hysterectomy, were incurred in service or as a result of disorders during service.

The Veteran's claim of service connection for residuals of a comminuted fracture of the left radial head with open reduction and internal fixation with scar is being remanded due to insufficient evidence regarding whether the injury preexisted service or was aggravated by service.

The Veteran's pension benefits were denied as his income exceeded the maximum annual pension rate (MAPR) set by law, effective February 1, 2011.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's bilateral shin splints warrant a 10 percent rating, but no higher, effective from August 4, 2011.

The appellant is not eligible for accrued benefits as a surviving child of the Veteran due to her age and because no costs were incurred for last sickness or burial.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for a VA examination and notification regarding secondary service connection claims.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including requesting SSA records and scheduling a VA examination to assess his employment potential due to service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's case is being remanded for a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge to address the issue of entitlement to an effective date earlier than January 31, 2012, for the grant of service connection for psychotic disorder, not otherwise specified, with substance abuse.

The Board has decided to remand the case for additional development, including obtaining a VA examination addendum and any relevant treatment records.