Alpers’ Disease and Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability Lawyer
Typically, applying for and receiving social security disability benefits can take many months. But what if your disabling condition is so severe that you cannot wait? Alpers’ disease is considered a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is Alpers’ Disease?
Alpers’ disease is a rare neurodegenerative disease that affects babies and children. Alpers’ disease attacks the brain’s gray matter, leading to progressively worsening dementia. Furthermore, the disease has been associated with mutations in the DNA of the mitochondria (a cellular structure whose job it is to nourish tissues, and is especially important to brain tissue). There is currently no cure for Alpers’ disease, so treatment is strictly geared toward mitigating symptoms. The prognosis for individuals with Alpers’ disease is poor; many affected individuals do not survive past the age of 10, and liver failure is often the immediate cause of death.
Alpers’ Disease Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of Alpers’ disease include:
- Seizures
- Developmental delay
- Mental retardation
- Dementia
- Poor muscle tone
- Spasticity in the limbs
- Optic atrophy and blindness
- Liver malfunction and failure
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk with a doctor immediately.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits and Alpers’ Disease
Alpers’ disease automatically qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alpers’ disease, then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnoses.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alpers’ disease, contact an experienced social security disability lawyer today. Please call us at 1-800-882-5500 or fill out a free consultation form for a free evaluation of your adrenal cancer social security disability case.
