The Board remands the issue of service connection for malignant neoplasms, including basal cell carcinoma, due to an inadequate VA examination and the need for a more comprehensive opinion regarding the Veteran's claimed disability.
The deciding factor: The examiner did not provide a rationale addressing herbicide agent exposure and based their opinion on the absence of in-service corroborating medical records, which is insufficient given the Veteran's competent lay statements of an in-service injury.
- Claimed conditions
- malignant neoplasms, including basal cell carcinoma
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- Agent Orange / herbicides
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- October 6, 2021
- Citation
- 21062241
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for service connection of radiogenic disease, including lung cancer and other related conditions, due to insufficient evidence and procedural requirements not being met.
- 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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
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.