The Veteran's claim for an initial rating of 20 percent for bilateral dry eye with left eye corneal opacities and recurrent corneal erosion was granted, while the claims for a 10 percent evaluation based upon multiple, noncompensable, service-connected disabilities, and initial compensable ratings for left hand post-traumatic arthritis long finger, little finger, and ring finger were denied. The claim for service connection for a bilateral foot disability was remanded.

The deciding factor: The decision was based on the evidence showing that the Veteran's bilateral eye condition met the criteria for a 20 percent rating, while other claims did not meet the necessary criteria or required further development.

Claimed conditions

Bilateral dry eye with left eye corneal opacities and recurrent corneal erosion, Left hand post-traumatic arthritis long finger, Left hand post-traumatic arthritis little finger, Left hand post-traumatic arthritis ring finger, Bilateral foot disability (also claimed as bilateral pes planus with hallux valgus and bilateral foot arthritis of MTP joint and bilateral big toe pain)

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

20%

Decision date

October 2, 2025

Citation

A25085321

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