The Board denied the veteran's appeal for a higher initial rating for his eczematous dermatitis, finding that an initial rating higher than 30 percent was not warranted based on the severity of the condition as determined by recent VA examinations.
The deciding factor: The veteran's skin condition did not meet the criteria for a rating higher than 30 percent under the applicable diagnostic codes and regulations, as his symptoms were less than 40% of the entire body or exposed areas affected, and no constant or near-constant systemic therapy was required during the past 12 months.
- Claimed conditions
- eczematous dermatitis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 15, 2009
- Citation
- 0901817
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for aid and attendance is granted, as he requires regular assistance with dressing, keeping himself clean and presentable, and attending to his bodily needs due to service-connected disabilities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for service connection for a skin condition, to include eczematous dermatitis, hand dermatitis, chronic spongiotic dermatitis, and psoriasis vulgaris, due to an inadequate VA medical examination and opinions.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the issues for additional evidentiary development, including a new VA examination and obtaining outstanding medical records.
- Granted
The veteran's appeal for an earlier effective date for several conditions was granted, with the effective date set to January 26, 2021. The veteran will receive a 20 percent disability rating for lumbar strain and degenerative disc disease.
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