Liposarcoma is a rare malignant tumor found in the fat cells located deep within the soft tissue of the body. These tumors are usually large in size, with smaller satellite tumors extending to other areas of the body. When the cancer becomes metastatic or recurrent, the prognosis of the condition becomes very poor. The symptoms associated with the condition include a deep mass in the soft tissue, pain, functional disturbance, weight loss, emaciation, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, the tumor may compress the kidney and can lead to kidney failure. Many of the people who develop this form of cancer will be unable to maintain gainful employment due to the symptoms of the cancer and the effects of treatment. In many cases, Social Security Disability benefits can help.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability with Liposarcoma
In the past, all disability claims were treated equally. Regardless of the impairment, it would take a minimum of two to four months for an applicant to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA then realized that some applicants could not possibly wait months for an approval of benefits and, as a result, introduced the Compassionate Allowances program. Under this program, an applicant could be approved for benefits in as few as 10 days. Metastatic or recurrent liposarcoma is one of the conditions that can qualify an individual for disability benefits under the Compassionate Allowances program.
To qualify for benefits under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances listing for recurrent or metastatic liposarcoma, you will need to furnish the SSA with medical evidence that proves that your condition meets the Compassionate Allowances listing criteria. To do this, you will want to provide the SSA with:
- X-ray or MRI of the affected areas; and
- Histologic examination of tissue by needle or surgical biopsy; and
- Physical examination records that reveal painless swelling or a mass on the body that tends to be large, firm, and near underlying structures; and
- Record of pain or soreness caused by compressed nerves or muscles; and
- Record of limping or difficulties using the legs, feet, arms or hands; and
- Record of reduced range of motion in the affected areas; and
- Clinical history and examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment; and
- Biopsy reports.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits with Liposarcoma
When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you may do so online via the SSA's website or in person at your local Social Security office. During the application process you will be asked to fill out a number of forms. You need to make sure you fill out each of these forms completely and with specific and detailed answers. The answers you provide will help the adjudicator who is reviewing your case understand how your condition qualifies you for benefits under the Compassionate Allowances program.
While it is rare for the SSA to deny benefits for a disability claim that is based on a Compassionate Allowances listing, it has been known to happen. This is usually due to claim forms that have not been filled out properly or a lack of sufficient medical evidence. If your benefits are denied, your appeal will be given priority as a Compassionate Allowances listing. You may, however, still wish to retain the services of a disability lawyer. A disability attorney can help you understand why your initial claim for benefits was denied and can inform you of what you need to do to strengthen your case and can help you file a successful appeal. Statistics show that applicants who pursue the appeal process with the help of an attorney are more likely to be awarded benefits as a result of their appeal.
