Leiomyosarcoma and the Social Security Disability Compassionate Allowances Program
In 2008 the Social Security Administration introduced the Compassionate Allowances program. This program was created to help those who are unable to wait the standard processing times for disability benefits due to the severity of their conditions. Under this program, an individual can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in as little as 10 days. Initially there were only 50 conditions included in the Compassionate Allowances program; however, the SSA has expanded the program to include 200 qualifying conditions.
Leiomyosarcoma is one of the conditions that qualify for processing under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
Leiomyosarcoma Condition and Symptoms
Leiomyosarcoma is a very rare soft tissue cancer. The cancer develops in the muscle cells that form the body’s involuntary muscles. This cancer can develop in the skin, uterus, stomach, intestine and blood vessel walls. The most common place for Leiomyosarcoma to develop is in the uterus, retroperitoneum, pelvis and large blood vessels. There are five types of Leiomyosarcoma including soft tissue LMS, cutaneous LMS, vascular LMS, LMS of the immunocompromised, and bone LMS. The symptoms of the condition depend on the location of the tumor or tumors. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- An abdominal mass
- Enlargement of the liver
- Jaundice
- Ascites
- Hepatic vein obstruction
- Renal vein obstruction
- Kidney dysfunction
- Swelling of the legs
- Abdominal discomfort
The exact cause of the condition is unknown. There is evidence that exposure to some chemicals may increase one’s risk of developing the condition. Unfortunately, people who develop Leiomyosarcoma usually do not exhibit symptoms until the cancer has significantly progressed. Because of this, prognosis of LMS patients is poor.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Leiomyosarcoma
In order to qualify for Compassionate Allowances processing under the SSA’s guidelines, the SSA requires certain medical proof to support the severity of your condition. In the case of Leiomyosarcoma, applicants should include:
- Evidence and findings of a physical examination
- Clinical history and examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment
- Laboratory studies to confirm the diagnosis, including biopsy and imaging results
- Endoscopy for tumors with gastrointestinal involvement
- Laboratory analysis
The exact evidence provided will depend on the area in which the tumor or tumors have developed. It is important to include as much medical evidence as possible and to provide complete and comprehensive answers on the disability application forms.
Leiomyosarcoma and Your Social Security Disability Case
Although legal representation is not required to apply for disability benefits, it may be in your best interests to retain the services of an attorney or advocate. An attorney will be able to help you prepare your application in a way that thoroughly demonstrates the severity of your condition. To find out more about applying for disability benefits due to a case of Leiomyosarcoma or to receive a free evaluation of your Social Security Disability claim, click here.
