Peripheral neuropathy decisions — 2000

The VA has determined that the veteran's neuropathy of the left arm does not meet the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 10 percent.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities have been rated based on their current functional impairment. The highest possible rating for each condition has been granted.

The Board denied the veteran's appeal for service connection for peripheral neuropathy of the left leg and feet, claimed as secondary to exposure to Agent Orange. The decision was based on the claim being not well-grounded.

The Board found that there is no medical evidence of current chronic disabilities for the claimed conditions and denied all service connection claims. Service connection was granted for left arm scars.

The veteran's claim for a higher rating for his service-connected diabetes mellitus was denied as the evidence did not show that it required insulin and restricted diet, or if oral hypoglycemic agent and restricted diet.

The Board finds that the veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the right upper extremity, residual of malnutrition, is manifested by symptoms productive of mild incomplete paralysis of the radial nerve. The criteria for a disability rating in excess of 20 percent have not been met.

The Board has determined that the appellant's claims for service connection for neuropathy of the left side of the body and a headache disorder are well-grounded. The evidence shows these conditions are related to his military service, specifically his combat injuries during World War II.

The Board has determined that the veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the left ulnar nerve is proximately due to his service-connected residuals of a laceration of the left hand, and thus grants service connection for this condition.

The veteran's disability conditions, including uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and amputation of the right leg, have rendered him unable to perform daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or toileting without assistance. The Board has determined that these conditions meet the criteria for special monthly pension based on the need for regular aid and attendance.

The Board found that the claim was not well-grounded and denied service connection for chronic peripheral neuropathy due to claimed exposure to Agent Orange in service.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for diabetic neuropathy, seborrheic dermatitis, and kidney stones as secondary to Agent Orange exposure due to a lack of competent medical evidence linking these conditions to his military service.

The Board has determined that the veteran's acneiform disease consistent with chloracne and peripheral neuropathy are service-connected as secondary to Agent Orange exposure. The claim for peripheral neuropathy is well-grounded.

The Board has denied the veteran's claim for service connection for peripheral neuropathy, finding that there is no competent evidence of a nexus between his current condition and his military service or exposure to herbicides.

The Board has denied the claims for service connection for chronic dysentery, irritable bowel syndrome, frostbite injury residuals, and peripheral neuropathy. The claim for arthritis was not reopened as new and material evidence was not presented. The heart condition with edema and hearing loss disability were also not reopened due to lack of new and material evidence.

The Board has denied the veteran's claims for service connection for peripheral neuropathy and colon cancer, both claimed as secondary to Agent Orange exposure. The evidence does not support a link between these conditions and the veteran's period of active service.

The veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, PCT, skin cancer, breathing problems (COPD), bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, and sleep apnea due to exposure to Agent Orange are denied.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for peripheral neuropathy due to Agent Orange exposure and an increased evaluation for low back syndrome. The evidence did not support a finding of peripheral neuropathy within weeks or months of exposure to Agent Orange, nor was there sufficient certainty linking the development of peripheral neuropathy to Agent Orange exposure.

The veteran's postoperative residuals of fractures of the left radius and ulna are granted a 10% rating for left ulnar neuropathy, which is secondary to his service-connected condition.

The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation for his service-connected residuals of a fragment wound of the left neck, with an injury to Muscle Group XXII and sensory neuropathy is being remanded due to incomplete examination reports. The RO must obtain additional medical records and schedule the veteran for a comprehensive VA examination by orthopedists and neurologists.