The Board denied service connection for arteriosclerosis obliterans and thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger’s disease) due to lack of evidence showing a current disability, as well as the absence of in-service incurrence or aggravation. The Veteran's smoking history was considered but not found to be related to his service-connected diabetes mellitus.
The deciding factor: The preponderance of the evidence did not support a finding that the Veteran had arteriosclerosis obliterans or thromboangiitis obliterans, and the Board determined that these conditions were not incurred in service or due to herbicide exposure. The Veteran's smoking history was considered but not found to be related to his diabetes mellitus.
- Claimed conditions
- arteriosclerosis obliterans, thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger’s disease)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- October 30, 2020
- Citation
- 20070647
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 Board has determined that the Veteran's arteriosclerosis obliterans and PAD are related to his service-connected coronary artery disease, as they share similar risk factors. The decision grants service connection for these conditions.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for service connection for arteriosclerosis obliterans and high blood pressure is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including a VA examination.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.