Rheumatoid arthritis decisions — 2018

The Board has denied service connection for a sinus disorder, rheumatoid arthritis with chronic joint pain, and a back disorder. The bilateral shoulder disorder appeal is remanded due to the need for a new VA examination.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for higher ratings for rheumatoid arthritis and osteopenia, as well as his request for an earlier effective date for service connection of thrombocytopenia. The Veteran was granted service connection for thrombocytopenia in June 2011, but the Board found that this did not warrant a retroactive effective date.

The Board has determined that the Veteran does not have a current diagnosis of any claimed conditions and there is no evidence linking these conditions to service. As such, the claims for service connection are denied.

The Veteran's claim for SMC based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person or housebound status was denied as his service-connected disabilities did not meet the criteria.,The appellant's claim for specially adapted housing, which is a one-time benefit, was also denied because the Veteran died during the appeal process.

The Board denied service connection for rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine (lumbar spine disability), and major depressive disorder as there was no evidence to support a link between these conditions and active duty.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have been found to preclude him from securing and maintaining all forms of substantially gainful employment, thus TDIU is granted.

The Board has remanded several issues, including the Veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions. The main issue is to determine if there was a left foot condition during his military service and whether it is related to his diabetes.

The Veteran's radiculopathy and degenerative joint disease are the primary conditions, but his radiculopathy is secondary to his degenerative joint disease. The Board finds that additional evidence from SSA is needed before a decision can be made on these issues.

The Veteran's radiculopathy and degenerative joint disease are the primary conditions, with his radiculopathy being secondary to his degenerative joint disease. The Board finds that additional evidence is needed from SSA.

The Board has reopened the claim of service connection for low back strain and remanded the issues of service connection for a left knee disorder, radiculopathy of the left lower extremity, and IVDS. The Veteran is also in receipt of Social Security Administration disability benefits but his SSA records have not been associated with the file.

The Veteran's lumbar spine disability is rated at 40% since November 19, 2015. The Board found no evidence of ankylosis or IVDS during the appeal period prior to this date.

The Veteran died from hepatic liver failure due to end stage liver disease. The VA doctor's opinion is that the death was at least as likely as not caused by long-term Methotrexate use, but there are concerns about informed consent and treatment protocols.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis and an increased rating for DJD of the left knee are being remanded due to the need for additional medical opinions. The claim for specially adapted housing is inextricably intertwined with the other two claims.

The Veteran's appeal for higher ratings and service connection was denied. The Board found no evidence of a chronic lumbar spine disability or respiratory problems due to asbestos exposure, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis of the hip, or blood blockage on the left side of the neck that were incurred in service.

The Veteran's initial increased evaluation for low back strain, rated as 10 percent prior to November 20, 2012 and as 20 percent since then, has been granted. The effective date is not specified.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation as of June 28, 2017.

The Board has granted the Veteran's claims of service connection for rheumatoid arthritis, right knee osteoarthritis, and chronic vaginal infections. The conditions are found to be related to her military service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's pre-existing rheumatoid arthritis of her left wrist was aggravated by service, and therefore grants service connection for aggravation.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including a VA examination to assess the impact of service-connected conditions on the Veteran's employability and an evaluation of flares.

The Board has remanded the case to obtain additional medical opinions and evidence regarding the Veteran's claims for service connection, including his exposure to Agent Orange. The issues of radiculopathy in the bilateral upper extremities, rheumatoid arthritis and hepatitis B, tinnitus, and depression are all pending.