Dermatomyositis

Serving the Western United States

Dermatomyositis and Social Security Disability Benefits

Dermatomyositis is a muscle disorder that is characterized by a skin rash and inflammation. Although no one knows the cause for this disease, it is thought that it occurs in relation to problems with the immune system. Symptoms include muscle weakness, red-purple skin rash, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing. These issues can either appear suddenly or progressively manifest over extended periods of time. The rash can appear in various parts of the body, but most of the time it is localized to the upper body (not going lower than the chest).

The weakness associated with dermatomyositis can be detrimental to the individual who is diagnosed with the illness. The most simple of tasks will become unconquerable obstacles because of the lack of energy.

Dermatomyositis and Social Security Disability Benefits Help

If the applicant’s impairment falls within any of the following categories set forth by Social Security’s Listing 14.05, then a strong claim may exist. The Listing is as follows;

14.05  Polymyositis and dermatomyositis.As described in 14.00D4. With:

A. Proximal limb‑girdle (pelvic or shoulder) muscle weakness, resulting in inability to ambulate effectively or inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively as defined in 14.00C6 and 14.00C7. OR

B. Impaired swallowing (dysphagia) with aspiration due to muscle weakness. OR

C. Impaired respiration due to intercostal and diaphragmatic muscle weakness. OR

D. Diffuse calcinosis with limitation of joint mobility or intestinal motility. OR

E. Repeated manifestations of polymyositis or dermatomyositis, with at least two of the constitutional symptoms or signs (severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss) and one of the following at the marked level:

1. Limitation of activities of daily living.
2. Limitation in maintaining social functioning.
3. Limitation in completing tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence, or pace.