Skin conditions (dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis) decisions — 2001

The veteran's service-connected foot disabilities have been rated as 20 percent disabling each, based on the severity of his symptoms and functional impairment. The VA has granted increased ratings for both right and left fifth metatarsal fractures with callus formation and tinea pedis.

The Board has determined that the veteran's tinea versicolor does not meet the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 10 percent.

The veteran's claims for service connection for PTSD, respiratory disability including sarcoidosis, joint pain, skin condition, and headaches have been denied as there is no evidence linking these conditions to his military service or onset within one year of separation.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for an extension beyond the basic period of eligibility for a program of vocational rehabilitation training due to his service-connected disabilities not meeting the criteria for a serious employment handicap.

The Board found that the veteran's back disability, diagnosed as chronic low back pain, was incurred in service and granted service connection for this condition. The claim for pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is pending due to lack of VA examination completion.

The Board denied the appellant's claims for increased evaluations for sinusitis, deviated nasal septum, hypertension, eczema, right middle finger fracture, and hearing loss. The evidence did not meet the criteria for an increase in disability ratings.

The Board found that the veteran's current skin conditions, other than tinea versicolor, were not incurred in service and denied his claim for service connection.

The VA has continued the veteran's current 30 percent rating for acne with alopecia and hidradenitis suppurativa, finding that his symptoms do not warrant a higher evaluation.

The Board has granted a 30 percent evaluation for pseudofolliculitis barbae, effective from the date of the decision. The tinea pedis remains at a 10 percent rating.

The Board has denied an increased rating for the veteran's service-connected skin disability, which is currently rated at 30 percent. The condition involves intermittent outbreaks of psoriasis and dermatitis on both legs and elbows.

The VA denied increased ratings for seborrheic dermatitis and right knee instability with chronic instability.

The veteran's claim for a permanent and total disability rating for pension purposes was denied due to his failure to appear for VA examinations.

The Board denied service connection for chloracne and a skin disorder behind the ears, finding no evidence of current disabilities or causation related to active military service or Agent Orange exposure.

The veteran's claim for service connection for acne was denied, but her low back disability was granted with a 40% rating. The appeal is mixed as it includes both granted and denied issues.

The Board has determined that the veteran's service-connected disabilities do not warrant an evaluation in excess of the currently assigned ratings.