Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Immunodeficiency Disorders
Immunodeficiency disorders impair the immune system’s ability to defend the body against foreign or abnormal cells that invade or attack it (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cancer cells). As a result, unusual bacterial, viral, or fungal infections or lymphomas or other cancers may develop.
Up to 25% of people who have an immunodeficiency disorder also have an autoimmune disorder (such as immune thrombocytopenia). In an autoimmune disorder, the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Sometimes the autoimmune disorder develops before the immunodeficiency causes any symptoms.
There are two types of immunodeficiency disorders:
- Primary: These disorders are usually present at birth and are genetic disorders that are usually hereditary. They typically become evident during infancy or childhood. However, some primary immunodeficiency disorders (such as common variable immunodeficiency) are not recognized until adulthood. There are more than 100 primary immunodeficiency disorders. All are relatively rare.
- Secondary: These disorders generally develop later in life and often result from use of certain medications or from another disorder, such as diabetes or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. They are more common than primary immunodeficiency disorders.
Some immunodeficiency disorders shorten life span. Others persist throughout life but do not affect life span, and a few resolve with or without treatment. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 14.00 of the Blue Book.
Do Immunodeficiency Disorders Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with immunodeficiency disorders do qualify, but only if their condition significantly limits their ability to work and perform everyday activities. The SSA will consider a number of factors when evaluating a claim, including:
- Residual functional capacity: How the condition affects the ability to perform routine tasks and maintain employment, even with treatment
- Symptoms: Such as severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss
- Treatment: The functional impact of treatment, including side effects
- Other factors: Age, education, and work experience
If someone has just started treatment, the SSA may wait to determine how it affects their ability to function. Caseworkers from Disability Determination Services (DDS) will also look for evidence that the condition is widespread, resistant to treatment, or impairs one or more regulatory mechanisms in the body.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with an immunodeficiency disorder and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
