Service connection for allergic rhinitis is granted.,An increased disability rating of 40 percent, but no higher, for lumbar spine arthritis is granted. The Veteran's back disability does not meet the criteria for an even higher rating due to lack of unfavorable ankylosis or incapacitating episodes.,Prior to November 17, 2015, an increased disability rating of 10 percent, but no higher, for facial acne is granted. From November 17, 2015 onwards, the Veteran's facial acne does not meet the criteria for a higher than 10 percent rating.,The appeal seeking an increased rating for erectile dysfunction and sleep apnea are dismissed as the Veteran withdrew these claims prior to the decision being made.,Service connection for bilateral knee disability is reopened. The claim will be remanded for further review.,Service connection for right wrist, right ankle, and bilateral plantar fasciitis disabilities are remanded.,Increased rating for bilateral metatarsus primus varus, right lower extremity radiculopathy, and adjustment disorder are also remanded.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's allergic rhinitis was granted service connection based on evidence including his reports of persistent allergy symptoms since service and the use of medication to treat these symptoms.,For lumbar spine arthritis, the rating is 40 percent as it meets the criteria for flexion limited to 30 degrees or less with associated muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait. There were no incapacitating episodes during the appeal period.,Prior to November 17, 2015, the Veteran's acne was rated at 10 percent as it affected less than 40 percent of his face and neck with one characteristic of disfigurement (no more than one feature). From November 17, 2015 onwards, the rating is not higher due to lack of evidence showing deep acne affecting 40 percent or more of the face and neck.,The Veteran withdrew appeals for increased SMC, erectile dysfunction, and sleep apnea. The Board has no further jurisdiction in these matters as they are withdrawn.,Service connection for bilateral knee disability is reopened based on new evidence received since the September 2001 denial. Further review is needed to determine if service connection can be established.,The claims for right wrist, right ankle, and bilateral plantar fasciitis disabilities are remanded as further evaluation is required.,Increased ratings for metatarsus primus varus, radiculopathy, and adjustment disorder are also remanded due to the need for further review.

Claimed conditions

Allergic rhinitis, Lumbar spine arthritis, Facial acne

How they argued it

Reopened with new and material evidence

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

40%

Decision date

October 25, 2018

Citation

18144984

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 18144984.