Ullrich Congenital Muscular Dystrophy (UCMD) 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? Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is UCMD?
UCMD is a disorder that affects skeletal muscles; it is characterized by severe, progressive muscle weakness and joint contractures. UCMD results from mutations in the COL6A1, COL6A2, and COL6A3 genes, which contain instructions for creating part of a protein called type VI collagen, which is crucial to the health and development of skeletal muscle. In UCMD, these mutations result in a shortage or absence of type VI collagen. Without this protein, the structural lattice that forms in the space between muscle cells cannot develop properly, resulting in severely compromised cellular stability and growth. The symptoms of UCMD are present at birth. Affected individuals experience a progressive loss of muscle function and generally die of respiratory failure by age 10.
UCMD Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of UCMD include:
- Severe muscle weakness
- Joint stiffness
- Hypermobility of wrist and ankle joints
- Curvature of the spine
- Respiratory difficulties
- Protruding hell bones
- Round face with droopy lower eyelids
- Prominent ears
- Skin abnormalities around the elbows and knees, palms and soles
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 UCMD
UCMD qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with UCMD, 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 UCMD, 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.
