The Board has decided to remand the case for further development regarding service connection for pulmonary sarcoidosis with associated interstitial lung disease due to in-service toxic exposure. The Veteran's claim will be reviewed based on his MOS of illustrator and any TERA (Toxic Exposure Risk Activity) opinion.
The deciding factor: The Board found insufficient evidence to establish service connection without a TERA opinion considering the synergistic, combined effects of all toxic exposure risk activities of the Veteran.
- Claimed conditions
- pulmonary sarcoidosis, interstitial lung disease
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- Burn pits / airborne hazards
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- July 24, 2024
- Citation
- A24040595
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 A24040595.
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.
- Granted
The Veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings have been granted. The initial rating of 10 percent, but not higher, has been assigned for pulmonary sarcoidosis. Service connection has also been established for migraine headaches, degenerative arthritis in the left knee, right knee disorder (osteoarthritis), right ankle sprain, right shoulder rotator cuff tendonitis, bilateral flat feet, and various foot conditions.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for earlier effective dates and increased ratings are being remanded due to the need for further review of the evidence. The Board is unable to determine if there was a factual increase in disability prior to the effective dates requested, or if service connection should be granted based on the current evidence.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) at the (o) rate and SMC(r)(1) rate effective May 13, 2024. The decision is based on his service-connected PTSD and other disabilities that require aid and attendance.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) at the (o) rate and SMC(r)(1) rate effective May 13, 2024. The decision is based on his service-connected PTSD and other disabilities that require aid and attendance.
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