Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system, which is a group of organs, vessels and tissues that protect you from infection and keep a healthy balance of fluids throughout your body. The lymphatic system, or lymphoid system, is part of the immune system and complementary to the circulatory system. It includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Where the cells of these organs or tissues mutate and multiply out of control, there is lymphoma. There are two primary types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. To date, scientists have identified more than 90 subtypes of lymphoma. While individual treatments will vary depending on the type of lymphoma, typical anticancer treatments involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or immunotherapy. The side effects of treatment may be profound, and often interfere with maintaining performance at a regular job.
If an individual with lymphoma decides that they should not work, then filing for Social Security disability benefits may be an option. The Social Security Administration evaluates lymphomas under Listing 13.08, depending on the type and progression of the lymphoma. Typically, a lymphoma that persists or recurs within 12 months following initial treatments will warrant an award of disability benefits under the listings.
If the Social Security Administration finds that the individual does not meet or equal the requirements for a disability listing, it is still possible to qualify for benefits. The adjudicators must then evaluate the claim to see if the individual could perform past work or any other work in the national economy, considering their maximum residual functional capacity after treatment. Symptoms of fatigue or the adverse side effects of cancer treatment could support a finding of disability it the evidence as a whole shows the individual could not sustain work on a regular and continuing bases; i.e. 8 hours a day, for 5 days a week.[1]
Working with an experienced law firm or attorney can greatly increase the chances of approval on a disability claim.
[1] SSR 96-9p
