If you have Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm, you are likely unable to work. You may, therefore, need to apply for social security disability benefits with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to address your loss of income following your diagnosis.
It is worth noting that, if you have been diagnosed with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm, you may qualify for a Compassionate Allowance through the SSA. A compassionate allowance allows you to bypass a waiting period and receive disability benefits sooner than you otherwise might. The following overview will explain what you need to know about Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm and social security disability benefits, and why you may consider hiring an attorney to help you with your application.
What is Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?
Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare type of cancer that affects the immune system. It involves the presence of abnormal cells called blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cells.
Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cells can accumulate in various parts of the body, such as the skin, lymph nodes, and bone marrow. Symptoms of BPDCN may include skin lesions, fever, weight loss, and swelling of the lymph nodes.
Experts do not fully understand the causes of BPDCN yet, and doctors often diagnose the condition in patients with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those who have received organ transplants. Treatment options for BPDCN may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplantation.
What Is A Compassionate Allowance?
Typically, when the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves an application for disability benefits, there is a five-month waiting period between the beginning of when the SSA finds a disability as qualifying for benefits to when an applicant actually starts receiving benefits.
However, it is sometimes possible for an applicant to skip this waiting period and receive disability benefits earlier. This fast-tracking occurs through the SSA’s Compassionate Allowance Program (CAP) which offers expedited applications and benefits to applicants who qualify.
An applicant with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN) may qualify for a compassionate allowance if they meet the requirements in section 13.06A of the SSA’s Blue Book—a resource the SSA uses to provide information regarding which conditions qualify for benefits and compassionate allowances. Because it can sometimes be challenging to demonstrate that a condition meets the Blue Book’s stated requirements, it may be wise for an applicant to enlist the help of an attorney when presenting their case to the SSA.
Medical Evidence For Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm
When applying for benefits and requesting a compassionate allowance, someone with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm will need to provide evidence of their condition. Useful evidence in these circumstances may include:
- Clinical history
- Skin biopsy indicating medium-size blast cells have infiltrated the dermis
- Bone marrow biopsy
Get Help With Your Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm Claim
Due to the nature of the treatment someone with this condition may undergo, pursuing a compassionate allowance from the SSA may be an added burden. This is one of many reasons why it is wise to coordinate with an attorney handling cases involving Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm and disability benefits.
While you focus on your recovery and treatment, your lawyer may focus on showing why you deserve a compassionate allowance. For more information, complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website.
