Citation Nr: 18145376
Decision Date: 10/26/18	Archive Date: 10/26/18

DOCKET NO. 17-00 761
DATE:	October 26, 2018
REMANDED
Entitlement to service connection for emphysema (claimed as a lung condition) is remanded.
REASONS FOR REMAND
The Veteran had active duty service from December 1963 to December 1965.
The Veteran seeks service connection for emphysema (claimed as lung condition), which he asserted initially was related to the sinusitis for which he received treatment in service.  See July 2015 notice of disagreement.  To address that contention, in April 2014, the Veteran was provided a VA examination to determine whether his current lung condition was at least as likely as not incurred in or caused by the treatment he underwent in service for acute sinusitis.  After examining the Veteran and reviewing the claims file, the examiner opined that the Veteran’s claimed lung condition was less likely than not incurred in or caused by the claimed in-service injury, event, or illness.  The examiner explained that the Veteran’s sinus condition started while he was on active duty and was thus “service connected.”  However, his lung problems were “probably related to other causes.”  The examiner did not elaborate on what those other causes might be.
Subsequently, in his December 2016 VA Form 9, substantive appeal, the Veteran also contended he was exposed to and inhaled chemicals from coal burning equipment while in service.  Additionally, he contended he was exposed to chemical substances in gas chambers during training exercises while in service.  Because of these exposures, the Veteran argued he presently suffered from emphysema.  As a medical opinion has not been obtained to address these contentions, the Board finds that a remand is necessary to obtain a supplemental medical opinion prior to adjudicating this claim.
The matter is REMANDED for the following action:
Obtain an addendum medical opinion from an appropriate clinician regarding whether the Veteran’s emphysema is at least as likely as not related to exposure to and inhaled chemicals.  The examiner is asked to specifically address the Veteran’s contentions of exposure to chemicals while in service and provide a thorough rationale for the opinions provided.  If it is determined that the requested opinion may not be provided without an examination of the Veteran, such should be scheduled.
 
A. ISHIZAWAR
Veterans Law Judge
Board of Veterans’ Appeals
ATTORNEY FOR THE BOARD	K. Churchwell, Counsel