Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems

Section 10 of the Blue Book deals with impairments that affect multiple body systems. Listings under Section 10 fall into two categories: Non-Mosaic Down’s Syndrome and all other conditions which affect multiple body systems.

Specific Conditions that qualify for disability under the multiple body systems section evaluation:

• Caudal Regression Syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
• Fragile X Syndrome
• Mosaic/Non-mosaic Down Syndrome
• Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• Reye’s Syndrome
• Trisomy X Syndrome (XXX Syndrome)

Down’s Syndrome

Non-Mosaic Down Syndrome is Down syndrome in which all of the body’s cells are affected. The vast majority of people with Down syndrome have the non-mosaic variety (roughly 98%). Those who have Mosaic Down Syndrome may still qualify for Social Security disability benefits, depending on the severity of the effects the condition has on their ability to function. Mosaic Down Syndrome is grouped with all other impairments which affect multiple body systems.

Individuals who are born with Non-Mosaic Down syndrome are considered disabled from birth by the SSA and will automatically qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

The evidence required to substantiate a disability benefits claim based on Down syndrome includes the following:

• A laboratory report of karyotype analysis signed by a doctor
• A laboratory report of karyotype analysis not signed by a doctor with a statement by a physician that the applicant has Down syndrome
• A doctor’s report stating the applicant has chromosome 21 trisomy or chromosome 21 translocation consistent with a prior karyotype analysis, with the distinctive physical features of Down syndrome.
• A doctor’s report stating the applicant has Down syndrome with the distinctive physical features of Down syndrome and evidence demonstrating the applicant’s functioning is at a level consistent with non-mosaic Down syndrome.