Skin conditions (dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis) decisions — 2015

The Veteran's PFB has not been manifested by visible or palpable tissue loss and either gross distortion or asymmetry of three or more features or paired sets of features, or six or more characteristics of disfigurement. Therefore, a rating greater than 60 percent is not warranted.

The Veteran's appeal was dismissed due to his withdrawal of the irregular heartbeat claim. The Board found that service connection for bilateral pes planus, a skin disorder claimed as acne and razor burn, and bilateral wrist disability is not warranted based on lack of evidence of an increase in severity during service or aggravation by service.

The Veteran's service-connected tinea cruris, neurodermatitis, and lichen simplex chronicus have been rated at 30 percent. The claim for an increased rating is denied as the evidence does not support a higher evaluation.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for a skin disability, including as due to Agent Orange exposure, is being remanded for further development and examination.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded to the AOJ for scheduling a video conference hearing due to his failure to appear at the previously scheduled hearing.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities render him in need of regular aid and attendance, warranting SMC based on the need for aid and attendance.

The Veteran's claim for an increased evaluation of his bilateral tinea pedis was granted. The Board also found new and material evidence to reopen the Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD.

The Veteran's folliculitis has not been shown to cover more than 20-40% of his body or exposed areas, nor does he require intermittent systemic therapy such as corticosteroids. Therefore, a higher rating is denied.

The Board granted the Veteran's claims of reopening his claim for service connection for basal cell carcinoma and granting an effective date earlier than February 26, 2009, for the grant of service connection for supraventricular arrhythmia. The other issues were either denied or not addressed in detail.

The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim for service connection for sleep apnea and granted it. The other claims are pending further development.

The Board found that the Veteran's psoriasis and cervical spine disorder were not shown to be related to his active military service, including presumed exposure to herbicides. The claims for these conditions are therefore denied.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the need for additional records and a VA examination. The current severity of his psoriasis vulgaris will be assessed.

The Veteran is seeking additional VA educational assistance benefits beyond the 48 months she has already received. The Board has ordered a remand to determine if additional vocational rehabilitation benefits are necessary for her education program.

The Board has found no evidence of a nexus between the Veteran's current gastrointestinal disorder and service, nor any connection to his in-service complaints. The same is true for his Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB). As such, the claims are denied.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including PTSD, render him unable to secure and maintain substantially gainful employment.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not render him unable to obtain and retain substantially gainful employment.

The Veteran's unauthorized medical expenses incurred on October 9, 2012 at St. Vincents Medical Center Southside were not reimbursable because the services were not authorized in advance by VA and there was no emergency requiring immediate attention.

The Veteran's skin disability of psoriasis and eczema affecting his bilateral elbows was granted service connection as it is considered a direct result of active service.

The Veteran's PTSD and depression were found to have been incurred in service.,There is no evidence of h. pylori infection, but the Veteran has current atopic dermatitis.

The Veteran's appeal has been withdrawn, and the case is dismissed.