Lissencephaly 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? Lissencephaly is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is Lissencephaly?
Lissencephaly is a brain malformation wherein the brain fails to develop folds, grooves, and contours between the 12th and 24th weeks of gestation. In healthy individuals, this formative period is when neurons migrate from their point of origin to their permanent positions. However, in lissencephaly, this migration falters and results in a malformed, or “smooth” brain. The causes of lissencephaly are multifold, and include genetic mutations, viral infections of the uterus, and insufficient blood supply to the fetal brain in utero. There are various degrees of lissencephaly, and the prognosis for children born with it depends on the severity of the condition. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. While many individuals fail to develop beyond a 3-5 month- old level, some affected individuals can live into their teens.
Lissencephaly Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of lissencephaly include:
- Small head size
- Severe mental retardation
- Psychomotor retardation
- Seizures
- Spasticity
- Failure to thrive
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unusual facial appearance
- Abnormalities of the fingers and toes
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 Lissencephaly
Lissencephaly automatically qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lissencephaly, then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lissencephaly, 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 social security disability case.
