Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) 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? Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is SLOS?
SLOS is a congenital metabolic and developmental disorder stemming from a deficiency in 7-DHC reductase, an enzyme crucial to cholesterol synthesis. Cholesterol is integral to cell health and development both before and after birth; it is a component of cell membranes and of myelin, the fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers. Mutations in the DHCR7 gene, which contains instructions for creating 7-DHC reductase, prevent cells from synthesizing enough cholesterol and also lead to toxic accumulations of cholesterol byproducts in the blood, nervous system, and body tissues. Abnormally low cholesterol levels combined with toxic levels of cholesterol byproducts wreak havoc on many different body systems, though it is still unknown how this combination produces the individual features of SLOS. The severity of SLOS varies widely among affected individuals, and symptoms range from mild physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities to life-threatening abnormalities and complications.
SLOS Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of SLOS include:
- Distinctive facial features
- Small head size
- Poor muscle tone
- Heart, lung, kidneys, genitalia and GI tract defects
- Intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Slow growth
- Fused and/or extra 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 SLOS
SLOS qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SLOS, 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 SLOS, 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.
