Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA): Understanding the Condition and its SSDI Implications

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a rare neurological disorder that gradually affects visual processing and cognitive abilities, making daily life increasingly challenging. If you or a loved one is dealing with PCA, navigating the complexities of healthcare and financial support is crucial, especially through programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Compassionate Allowance Status for PCA

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA) under the Compassionate Allowances program, which helps to expedite the processing of SSDI claims for individuals with severe conditions. PCA is included under DI 23022.643, and individuals diagnosed with this condition can benefit from faster SSDI approval. This means that those suffering from PCA do not have to endure the typical lengthy claim process, allowing them to access vital financial support more quickly. Additionally, PCA is categorized under SSA Listing 11.17B – Neurocognitive Disorders, which covers the cognitive impairments associated with the disease​​.

What Causes Posterior Cortical Atrophy?

Posterior Cortical Atrophy is most often associated with Alzheimer's disease but can also result from other neurodegenerative diseases such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. PCA affects the back part of the brain (the posterior cortex), impairing visual perception, reading, writing, and even coordination, while memory remains relatively intact in the early stages. As the disease progresses, cognitive functions, including memory, may become affected.

Understanding PCA in Simple Terms

Imagine trying to read a book, but the letters on the page keep shifting and blurring, or trying to reach for a cup but constantly misjudging where it is. These frustrating experiences give a glimpse of what it feels like to have PCA. Even though your memory of the book's plot might still be strong, your ability to visually comprehend and interact with your surroundings becomes difficult over time.

Daily Life with PCA: The Impact on Functioning

Living with PCA significantly impacts one's ability to perform daily tasks. The disorder primarily affects vision and spatial awareness, leading to difficulties in recognizing objects, navigating familiar environments, and processing visual stimuli. This can hinder basic tasks such as driving, reading, and using household appliances. Moreover, as the disease progresses, individuals may struggle with work-related tasks that require visual processing and coordination, limiting their ability to maintain employment.

PCA can also impact cognitive functions, making it hard to multitask, concentrate, or plan activities. For many, this affects their ability to manage personal finances, communication, and independent living.

Current Research and Hope for Treatment

While the connection between Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) and Alzheimer's disease has been known, recent research has provided stronger evidence and more precise data. A 2024 international cohort study found that 94% of PCA cases showed Alzheimer's disease pathology at autopsy, with amyloid and tau protein biomarkers detected in the majority of participants. Specifically, amyloid-PET scans were positive in 94% of individuals, and tau-PET scans were positive in 97%. The study also highlighted that 60% of PCA cases involved women, emphasizing a female predominance in the condition. These findings reinforce PCA as a variant of Alzheimer’s disease and underscore the importance of using biomarker testing, such as PET scans, for early and accurate diagnosis. Early detection through these methods offers hope for timely interventions and personalized treatment, which could improve the quality of life for those affected by PCA​. (Rabinovici, G. D., et al. (2024), The Lancet Neurology, 23(2), 168-177.v)

SSDI Bluebook Requirements and Starting a Disability Claim

When starting a disability claim for Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), it is important to understand how the condition is categorized under the SSA's Bluebook. PCA, especially when linked to Alzheimer’s disease pathology, falls under Listing 11.17B – Neurocognitive Disorders. This listing applies to individuals with neurodegenerative conditions that cause a significant decline in cognitive and perceptual abilities, including those seen in PCA. To qualify for SSDI under this listing, claimants must provide medical evidence showing marked limitations in their ability to understand, remember, or apply information, as well as limitations in interacting with others, concentrating, or managing daily life independently.

Medical documentation is crucial, including neuropsychological evaluations, PET scan results showing amyloid or tau biomarkers, and clinical records detailing the progression of visual and cognitive impairments. Because PCA primarily affects visual and spatial processing, the impact on work-related tasks and daily functioning should be clearly demonstrated. Meeting these criteria can increase the likelihood of qualifying for disability benefits under SSDI, providing crucial financial support for individuals with this debilitating condition​​

Summary

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a rare neurodegenerative condition that severely impacts visual and cognitive functions. It is listed under the Compassionate Allowances program, which allows for faster processing of SSDI claims. Specifically, PCA is listed under SSA Listing 11.17B for neurocognitive disorders, meaning individuals with PCA can qualify for expedited SSDI benefits with the appropriate medical documentation. Early detection and biomarker testing, such as amyloid-PET and tau-PET scans, are crucial for diagnosis and effective management. Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of PCA and its relationship to Alzheimer’s disease, offering hope for better treatments and improved quality of life

References:

Social Security Administration. (n.d.). DI 23022.643 Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. SSA Program Operations Manual System (POMS). Retrieved from https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0423022643

Social Security Administration. (n.d.). Neurological - Adult. SSA Blue Book Listing of Impairments 11.7B. Retrieved from https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm#11_17

Rabinovici, G. D., et al. (2024). Demographic, clinical, biomarker, and neuropathological correlates of posterior cortical atrophy: an international cohort study and individual participant data meta-analysis. The Lancet Neurology, 23(2), 168-177.v
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(23)00414-3/fulltext

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions. Consult with a licensed attorney for legal advice.

AI Ethical Statement: This article includes information sourced from government health websites, reputable academic journals, non-profit organizations, and generated with AI. A human author has substantially edited, arranged, and reviewed all content, exercising creative control over the final output. People and machines make mistakes. Please contact us if you see a correction that needs to be made.