Skin disorders can affect an individual’s ability to work, sometimes to the extent that maintaining substantial gainful activity is impossible. In determining whether an individual meets the severity requirements for disability based on a skin condition, Social Security Administration will need information on the duration of the skin disorder, the frequency and location of the condition, and overall prognosis. They will also consider which factors may exacerbate the skin disorder, such as stress, temperatures, or atmospheric conditions. Bottom of Form
If a claimant can establish the existence, duration, and severity of a skin disorder with medical evidence, Social Security Administration will evaluate the evidence under Listing 8.00 of the Blue Book, referred to as the Listing of Impairments. Listing 8.00 covers skin conditions including ichthyosis, bullous disease, chronic infection of the skin or mucous membranes, dermatitis, hidradenitis supportive, genetic photosensitivity disorders, and burns.
If a skin condition does not meet or equal the criteria for a Listing, disability may still be warranted by a skin disorder if the overall symptoms lead to an inability to maintain substantial gainful activity. Skin impairments can cause significant physical limitations in normal activities such as walking, standing, lifting, bending, reaching, handling or fingering objects. Moreover, painful or irritating skin lesions, ulcerations, and burns can cause severe mental limitations which interfere with persistence and pace in a competitive work environment.
The claimant will also need to show compliance with prescribed medical treatment, though exceptions may be made for good cause or when prescribed treatment would not restore an individual’s ability to work.[1] Nonetheless, it is important to continue medical treatment when applying for benefits as they will rely heavily on medical records for evidence, and lack of ongoing evidence could affect the outcome of the claim. An experienced attorney or law firm can assist in obtaining all evidence needed to prove disability from a skin disorder.
[1] SSR18-3p
