Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP) 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? Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is XP?
XP is an inherited condition that affects the eyes and sun-exposed areas of skin. The hallmark of XP is severe sensitivity to UV rays. XP is caused by mutations in the genes that are responsible for repairing damaged DNA through a process called nucleotide excision repair. When this process cannot occur normally, damaged DNA accumulates; this accumulation produces the symptoms of the disease. UV damage to genes that regulate cell growth and division can also trigger uncontrolled cell growth, which can lead to cancerous tumors; consequently, many people with XP develop skin cancer on the face, lips, scalp, and eyelids. Some with XP also develop neurological symptoms, which tend to worsen over time. The most effective treatment for XP is avoiding sun exposure. The prognosis for affected individuals varies depending upon the severity of the condition. Those with more severe cases do not often survive more than a few decades. Those with less severe cases can live well into their 40s.
XP Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of XP include:
- Severe sunburns after just a few minutes of sun exposure
- Freckling in sun-exposed areas
- Dry skin
- Changes in skin pigmentation
- Severe eye sensitivity to the sun
- Cloudy corneas
- Eyelids turned inward or outward
- Loss of eyelashes
- Neurological abnormalities (hearing loss, poor coordination, difficulty swallowing, seizures)
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 XP
XP qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with XP, 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 XP, 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.
