Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease (PMD) – Connatal Form 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? Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease (PMD) – Connatal Form is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is PMD?
PMD is a disorder of the central nervous system that affects intellectual function and motor coordination to varying degrees. PMD belongs to a group of disorders called leukodystrophies, which are characterized by abnormalities in myelin (the fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibers) production. Without proper myelin coating, the nerves cannot properly transmit electrochemical impulses from the brain to other areas of the body. PMD itself is caused, in most cases, by one of a number of types of mutations in the gene that codes for a myelin-related protein called proteolipid protein 1 (PLP1), though several other genes can be affected. There are several forms of PMD, including classic, connatal, transitional, and adult varieties. The severity of the disease depends upon the type of mutation or mutations present and the gene or genes in which they exist. Connatal PMD is the most severe form of the disease and its symptoms present in infancy; the prognosis for affected individuals is poor. There is no cure for PMD. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
PMD – Connatal Form Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of PMD – Connatal Form include:
- Problems feeding
- Whistling sound when breathing
- Poor muscle tone
- Muscle jerks
- Difficulty controlling muscle movements
- Impaired speech
- Developmental disability
- Severe neurological deficits
- Seizures
- Severe intellectual impairment
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 PMD – Connatal Form
PMD – Connatal Form qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PMD – Connatal Form, 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 PMD – Connatal Form, 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.
