Tuberculosis decisions — 2010

The Veteran's service connection claims for hypercholesterolemia, positive PPD test (potential tuberculosis), and initial compensable evaluation for herniated nucleus pulposus L3-L4 were denied. The Veteran's hypercholesterolemia was not found to be a disability for VA purposes, the positive PPD test did not result in active tuberculosis, and service connection for herniated nucleus pulposus L3-L4 warranted an initial noncompensable evaluation.

The Board has ordered additional development to be completed in order to ensure a complete record for the Veteran's claims. The claims include service connection for a psychiatric disorder and lung scarring associated with pulmonary tuberculosis.

The Board denied the appellant's petition to reopen her claim for service connection for the cause of the Veteran's death, and determined that she did not meet the criteria for nonservice-connected pension or accrued benefits.

The Veteran's appeals for service connection for lung, sinus, prostate disorders and a chronic disorder manifested by chills, aches, and pains have been dismissed as the Veteran has withdrawn these issues.

The Board has denied the Veteran's attempts to reopen his claims for service connection for arteriosclerosis and pulmonary tuberculosis, finding that the new evidence received since the last final rating decisions does not relate to an unestablished fact necessary to substantiate the claims.

The Veteran's hearing loss in the left ear does not meet VA criteria for a disability. The positive tuberculosis test result is considered a test result and not a disability. Service connection remains pending for diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and left hand numbness.

The Board found that the Veteran's service-connected conditions did not cause or contribute to his death, and thus denied the claim for service connection for the cause of the Veteran's death.

The Board found that the Veteran's service-connected pulmonary tuberculosis did not cause or contribute to his death from bronchopneumonia and other significant conditions.

The Board denied the petition to reopen the claim for service connection for cause of death due to lack of new and material evidence.

The Board denied the claim for service connection for the cause of the Veteran's death, finding that coronary artery disease did not cause or contribute to his death.

The Veteran withdrew his appeals for all seven issues, including service connection claims and initial compensable ratings.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete development of records and a need for medical opinions regarding the cause of death.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded for further development, including a new VA examination to determine the existence and severity of any current pulmonary conditions that are residuals of his service-connected pulmonary tuberculosis.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for pulmonary tuberculosis and glaucoma have been reopened due to the submission of new evidence. However, the claims remain denied as there is insufficient competent medical evidence linking these conditions to his military service.

The Veteran's claim for an increased (compensable) rating for his service-connected pulmonary tuberculosis is being remanded due to the inadequacy of a previous VA examination. The case will be returned for further development and consideration.

The Veteran is over the age of 65 and has a disability rating of 60 percent for inactive pulmonary tuberculosis, which qualifies him for special monthly pension.

The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for his inactive pulmonary tuberculosis is being remanded due to the need for further development, including a VA examination.

The claim of service connection for the cause of death is denied as new and material evidence has not been received. DIC benefits under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1318 are also denied.

The Veteran seeks an increased rating for his service-connected pulmonary tuberculosis with segmental resection of the left upper lobe, currently rated at 60 percent. The case is being remanded to obtain updated treatment records and a VA examination to assess the current severity of the condition.

The Veteran withdrew his appeal for an increased rating for pulmonary tuberculosis before the Board could make a decision.