May is recognized in the US and Canada as Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness Month. During the month of May, special effort is made to educate the general public about the effects of Tuberous Sclerosis (also known as TSC) and to raise funds to fund research into treatment options.
What Is Tuberous Sclerosis Complex?
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is considered a genetic disorder, though only about a third of all cases are known to be inherited. Experts believe the other two thirds are caused by spontaneous genetic mutations, though the jury is still out on this. In any case, the cause of the genetic mutations for is unknown for cases which are not inherited.
TSC causes tumors in a number of different organs, including:
- Brain
- Lungs
- Skin
- Eyes
- Kidneys
- Heart
There is a wide range to the extent and severity of the symptoms suffered by those who have TSC. The disease often goes completely undiagnosed because the symptoms can be very mild. In other cases, TSC causes serious complications, including:
- Autism
- Mental retardation
- Developmental delays
Tuberous sclerosis can be diagnosed using a variety of medical imaging tests, including EKGs, CT Scans, brain MRIs, heart echocardiograms, and renal ultrasounds. It may also be diagnosed using skin evaluation or eye exams.
Those who are diagnosed with TSC have a number of treatment options available, and researchers continue to work on newer and better treatments in the hope of one day eradicating the disease. Treatment options include surgery to remove tumors and seizure control therapies. Experts agree that the best hope for effective treatment of TSC lies with diagnosing the condition as early as possible.
Can I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits with TSC?
You can apply for Social Security disability benefits with tuberous sclerosis. When the SSA considers your claim, the main determining factor will be the severity of your symptoms.
You may also qualify for SSI if you have a dependent child who has TSC and you are in sufficient financial need. Whether you are applying for yourself or on behalf of a dependent, it’s always a good idea to consult a Social Security lawyer. He will be able to make recommendations taking into account the particulars of your case.
Disability for a Child with TSC
The main symptoms the SSA looks at when considering a claim for a child with tuberous sclerosis are seizures and other mental or developmental disorders. In building your case, it’s important to keep track of any seizures. The disease is generally judged as a neurological disorder, though your child may also qualify as a result of other symptoms if they are severe enough.
Disability as an Adult with TSC
As with children, the main thing the SSA considers in adjudicating TSC cases for adults are the frequency and severity of seizures. It will be important to keep track of your seizures and to make a strong case regarding how they affect your ability to perform meaningful work.
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