Rheumatoid arthritis decisions — 2002

The Board denied service connection for rheumatoid arthritis of the hands and knees, finding no current disease or disability related to active military service.

The Board has determined that the veteran's service-connected rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatic fever result in loss of use of both hands and feet, qualifying him for special monthly compensation based on these conditions.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for a skin disorder, cataracts of the eyes, and rheumatoid arthritis as secondary to exposure to Agent Orange. The evidence submitted did not provide new and material information that would change the outcome.

The Board found that the veteran's service-connected rheumatoid arthritis does not currently have active symptoms or associated chronic residuals, and thus denied his claim for an increased rating.

The veteran's appeal for a higher evaluation of his service-connected rheumatoid arthritis was denied by the RO. The RO granted an increased evaluation to 40 percent effective February 24, 1998, but did not address the veteran's claim for extraschedular consideration or secondary service connection for loss of visual acuity.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for an earlier effective date for special monthly pension based on the need for aid and attendance, finding that there was no evidence of a need for such benefits prior to June 7, 1996.