Wolman Disease 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? Wolman disease is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is Wolman Disease?
Wolman disease is a rare, inherited condition in which the body fails to break down fats and cholesterols properly, thus allowing them to accumulate in toxic levels in organs, glands, and lymph nodes. Wolman disease is caused by mutations in the LIPA gene, which contains instructions for producing an enzyme called lysosomal acid lipase. Found in lysosomes (the recycling centers of the cell), this enzyme helps metabolize fats and proteins for the body to use as energy. The mutations characteristic of Wolman disease cause a shortage of lysosomal acid lipase; consequently, triglycerides and other kinds of fats build up in the cells and tissues, robbing the body of its ability to absorb nutrients from food. There is no cure for Wolman disease, and babies born with the condition tend to develop severe malnutrition and usually die in early childhood.
Wolman Disease Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of Wolman disease include:
- Enlarged liver and spleen
- Failure to thrive
- Poor muscle tone
- Jaundice
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Developmental delay
- Anemia
- Malnutrition
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 Wolman Disease
Wolman disease qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Wolman disease, 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 Wolman disease, 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.
