Peripheral neuropathy decisions — 2010

The Board has remanded the case for additional development due to incomplete service records and a need to clarify the etiology of any herniated disc found.

The Veteran's ischemic optic neuropathy of the left eye is service-connected as resulting from a cerebrovascular accident during inactive duty for training on May 28, 2007.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for certification for automobile and adaptive equipment or adaptive equipment only due to lack of loss of use of feet, hands, or vision. The Veteran is also denied TDIU as his combined disability rating does not meet the minimum schedular requirements.

The Veteran seeks service connection for peripheral neuropathy of the upper extremities, claimed as due to Agent Orange exposure. The Board has remanded the case for additional development and clarification.

The Veteran's appeal has been remanded due to the need for additional examinations and opinions regarding his claims. The issues of service connection for chloracne, peripheral neuropathy of the right lower extremity, and peripheral neuropathy of the left lower extremity remain pending.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to scheduling issues for a Board hearing. Service connection claims for various conditions are pending.

The Veteran's appeal has been dismissed due to his death. The Board does not have jurisdiction to adjudicate the merits of this case.

The Veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities is currently rated at 10 percent, and the evidence does not support a higher rating.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to his request for a hearing before the Board. The case will be returned to the RO for further action.

The Veteran's claims for compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for right and left femoral neuropathy are being remanded due to incomplete records and the need for further development.

The Board finds that the Veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the upper and lower extremities is likely due to his exposure to herbicide agents, specifically Agent Orange, during service in Vietnam. The evidence supports a link between his symptoms and his military service.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for ischemic heart disease and polyneuropathy were not pending at the time of his death, so he is not entitled to accrued benefits in excess of $4330.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and peripheral neuropathy were denied. The Board found that the criteria for higher ratings had not been met during the relevant periods.

The Veteran's service connection claims for a right hand condition and a right elbow condition were granted, but his claim for arthritis of the right elbow was denied. The Veteran has been awarded service connection for ulnar neuropathy of the right upper extremity.

The Veteran's service records do not show exposure to Agent Orange or any other herbicide. His diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy are not shown to be related to his military service, including any potential exposure to herbicides.