The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for actinic keratosis and skin growth, left shoulder disability, and right ankle disability have been denied. The Veteran does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under applicable VA regulations.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence did not show any additional characteristics of disfigurement or visible/palpable tissue loss that would warrant a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 7800, and the Veteran's range of motion in his left shoulder was found to be sufficient for a 20% disability rating.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Actinic Keratosis and Skin Growth (claimed as neoplasms)","location":"Head and Torso","severity":"1-square centimeter scar on anterior trunk; five hypopigmented scars on top of head"}, {"condition_name":"Left Shoulder Disability","issues":["Torn Muscle (previously rated as left shoulder sprain)","Osteoarthritis of the Acromioclavicular Joint","Rotator Cuff Tendonitis","Impingement Syndrome"]}, {"condition_name":"Right Ankle Disability","issues":["Avulsion Fracture with Arthritis"]}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- January 17, 2019
- Citation
- 19104577
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
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