The Board has granted service connection for squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil, finding that it is at least as likely as not caused by herbicide exposure in Vietnam. The decision resolves a conflict between positive opinions and one negative opinion.
The deciding factor: The Board found reasonable doubt resolved in favor of the Veteran's claim based on multiple positive opinions linking his tonsil cancer to herbicide exposure, including those from Drs. E., F., and R.L.F.
- Claimed conditions
- squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil
- How they argued it
- Presumptive (no nexus needed)
- Exposure basis
- Burn pits / airborne hazards
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 18, 2023
- Citation
- 23016536
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 23016536.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board allowed the benefit or issue identified in this decision. Review the original order: other issues in the same appeal may have a different outcome, and this decision does not predict another claim.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil is granted service connection due to herbicide exposure during service. The cause of death, metastatic head cancer, is also granted as it was a contributory cause.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the case due to a lack of medical opinion and consideration of prior service. The claim for service connection for cause of death is being reconsidered.
- Whole decision: Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for service connection for squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil, finding that there was no evidence linking the cancer to his military service or toxic exposures.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Board has granted service connection for a back disability and squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil, finding that both conditions are at least as likely as not caused by the Veteran's active duty service. The claimant's significant exposure to herbicide agents in Vietnam is considered relevant evidence.
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