Malignant Germ Cell Tumor and Social Security Disability
The Social Security Administration introduced the Compassionate Allowances program in 2008 as an answer to the extensively-long wait times that were required for an approval of Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA recognized that some applicants could not possibly wait months or even years to be approved for disability benefits. Thanks to the Compassionate Allowances program, some applicants can now be awarded benefits in as little as 10 days.
Initially there were only 50 conditions that qualified for Compassionate Allowances processing. That list has recently been extended to include approximately 200 conditions. Malignant germ cell tumor is now included in the list of disabilities that qualify an applicant for claim processing under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
Malignant Germ Cell Tumor Condition and Symptoms
A malignant germ cell tumor is a malignant tumor that is formed by immature cells that begin in the reproductive cells of the human body. As ovarian cells, the germ cells travel into the pelvis. As testicular cells, these cells travel into the scrotal sac. The cells often metastasize to other parts of the body, commonly spreading to the lymph nodes, liver, lungs and the central nervous system. On rare occasions they may develop in the brain, chest or abdomen. The exact cause of these tumors is unknown.
Symptoms of malignant germ cell tumors can vary depending on where the tumor is located and the stage of the cancer. Symptoms commonly associated with malignant germ cell tumors include:
- Chest pain
- Breathing problems
- Chronic cough
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- A mass in the lower abdomen or buttocks
- Back pain
- Kidney problems
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Fatigue
- Trouble walking
- Uncontrolled eye movements
- Double vision
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits with a Malignant Germ Cell Tumor
If you wish to have your disability processed under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances guidelines, you must provide the SSA with specific medical evidence that supports the severity of your condition. Without this medical evidence, your Social Security Disability claim may be delayed or even denied.
If you are applying for disability benefits because of a malignant germ cell tumor, you must provide the SSA with:- A clinical history and examination that describes the features of your impairment.
- A pathology report of a biopsy specimen
- Results of imaging studies such as MRI or CT Scan
Treatment for malignant germ cell tumors depend on the type of tumor, the stage of the tumor at diagnosis and the age of the patient. Primary treatment usually involves the surgical removal of the tumor. Tumors that have metastasized to distant parts of the body will require chemotherapy and/or radiation.
A Malignant Germ Cell Tumor and Your Social Security Disability Case
You are not required by law to retain the services of an attorney to file for Social Security Disability benefits. Doing so, however, may help you be approved for benefits more quickly.
While it is not common for the SSA to deny Compassionate Allowances claims, it does happen. Often times, a denial occurs as a result of insufficient medical evidence or technical errors on application documents. An attorney or advocate will keep you from making these types of mistakes and can increase your chances of approval for Social Security Disability benefits.
Click here to find out more about applying for disability benefits due to a malignant germ cell tumor or to receive a free evaluation of your Social Security Disability claim.
