Citation Nr: 21014899
Decision Date: 03/16/21	Archive Date: 03/16/21

DOCKET NO. 15-46 187
DATE: March 16, 2021

REMANDED

The claim for service connection for sarcoidosis is remanded.

REASONS FOR REMAND

The Veteran served on active duty from May 1980 to July 1985. 

1. Entitlement to service connection for sarcoidosis

The Veteran contends that she developed sarcoidosis as a result of chemical exposures during military service, specifically diesel fuel and bromine. She was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in June 2012. She contends that there is significant evidence that diesel fuel/bromine contributes or aggravates sarcoidosis and she began to experience symptoms consistent with her current symptoms during service. In addition, she states that she was exposed to a significant amount of diesel fuel/bromine during service and a statement for a fellow service member with whom she served confirms the exposure to diesel fuel. Finally, she reports that she exhibited a strong reaction to bromine in the 1990s, as indicated by the fact that VA purchased a hot tub which did not utilize bromine like a swimming pool so that she could exercise and rehabilitate her orthopedic disabilities. 

Based on the forgoing, the Board finds that the evidence of record triggers VA’s duty to obtain a VA examination and etiology opinion.  

In addition, all outstanding records of ongoing VA treatment should be obtained. 

The matters are REMANDED for the following action:

1. Obtain all outstanding VA treatment records.

2. Schedule the Veteran for a VA examination to evaluate the nature and etiology of her sarcoidosis disability.  The examiner must review the claims file.

The Board notes that she carries a current diagnosis of sarcoidosis, so even if the disability is not found upon examination, the following etiology opinions must be provided. 

The examiner is asked to provide a response to the following:

Did the Veteran’s sarcoidosis have onset during military service or within one year post-discharge? The Veteran’s lay statements must be considered in addition to her service treatment records.  

Is sarcoidosis at least as likely as not related to service, including the significant exposure to diesel fuel and/or bromine described by the Veteran.  

(Continued on the next page)

 

Provide a rationale to support the opinion(s).

 

 

Cynthia M. Bruce

Veterans Law Judge

Board of Veterans’ Appeals

Attorney for the Board	A. B., Counsel

The Board’s decision in this case is binding only with respect to the instant matter decided. This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.