What you have to prove
Meet listing via: (1) proximal limb-girdle muscle weakness with inability to ambulate effectively or perform fine/gross movements; OR (2) inability to swallow; OR (3) impaired respiration; OR (4) diffuse calcinosis with associated deformity.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Rheumatologist and neurology records, CK elevation, EMG findings, muscle biopsy, and skin biopsy if dermatomyositis.
Common misconceptions
Most treated polymyositis/dermatomyositis responds to corticosteroids and may not meet the listing. Cases with cancer-associated dermatomyositis or aggressive myopathy qualify more readily.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.