An evaluative review of the evidence supporting idiopathic basal ganglia calcification for inclusion in the compassionate allowances intitiative

Objectives

The Social Security Administration created the Compassionate Allowances List (CAL) as a mechanism for expedited review and delivery of disability benefits. An evaluative review examined the suitability of Idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (IBGC) for inclusion in the CAL.

Methods

Using guidance from the Cochrane methodology, a systematic review of the literature was undertaken utilizing nine major databases. Articles (n = 451) which met inclusion criteria were coded and severity thresholds were examined to determine if IBGC “invariably” met CAL inclusion criteria.

Results

IBGC does not invariably meet the criteria for inclusion in the CAL as the presentation is too variable to universally recommend inclusion.

Discussion

Given that differentiating between those who are symptomatic and those who are not may include citation of medical evidence, the Quick Disability Determination process may be a more applicable expedited review procedure. For those who are clinically symptomatic inclusion is recommended.