Rheumatoid arthritis decisions — 2008

The Board found that the veteran does not have a current disability manifested by herniated nucleus pulposus and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar and cervical spine due to or aggravated by military service, nor may service connection for a chronic disorder be presumed.

The Board has determined that the veteran's death was not caused by a service-connected disability, and thus denied the claim for service connection for the cause of the veteran's death.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection and increased evaluations, as well as her requests for earlier effective dates. The RO established service connection for right knee medial compartment degenerative joint disease but denied other claims.

The Board has determined that the veteran's rheumatoid arthritis is service-connected, resolving all reasonable doubt in favor of the claim.

The veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions have been dismissed due to withdrawal of the claim for rheumatoid arthritis.

The Board found that the veteran's pre-existing pes planus was aggravated by his military service, but his rheumatoid arthritis is not attributable to his military service.

The Board is remanding the case for further development, including obtaining service medical records and a VA examination to determine if the veteran's arthritis was related to his service.