Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Apert Syndrome
Apert syndrome is a rare genetic condition that is apparent at birth. People with Apert syndrome can have distinctive malformations of the skull, face, hands, and feet. Apert syndrome is characterized by craniosynostosis, a condition in which the fibrous joints (sutures) between bones of the skull close prematurely. This can cause the top of the head to appear pointed and can affect facial bones. Certain fingers or toes may be fused or webbed. Affected children may also have intellectual disability. The severity of symptoms varies between individuals. Apert syndrome almost always results from new genetic changes (mutations) that occur randomly. Rarely, it is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. People with Apert syndrome can undergo therapies that address specific symptoms. This could include reconstructive skull, facial, hand, and foot surgeries. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Apert Syndrome Qualify for Disability?
There is no disability listing for Apert syndrome within the SSA’s Blue Book. However, this does not mean that the condition cannot medically qualify a child to receive benefits. Adults who experience ongoing and severe complications from the condition can also meet the SSA’s eligibility rules.
To qualify medically for benefits, infants, children, or adults must:
- Meet or match a listed impairment in the SSA’s Blue Book
OR
- Show through medical and other records that their disability is severe and:
- Prevents gainful employment for an adult
- Prevents participation in normal, age appropriate activities for children
Infants and young children with Apert syndrome clearly meet the requirements for medically qualifying, even if they do not match any listed condition in the SSA’s Blue Book.
Older children and adults with Apert syndrome however may need to demonstrate more clearly their disability by either matching or meeting a Blue Book listing or by proving through a functional capacity analysis that the combined effects of all their medical conditions cause severe impairment.
Apert syndrome or a related condition may meet or match one of the following disability listings:
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 Apert syndrome and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
