The multiple body system represents a special category of diseases that contain a number of congenital disorders in children and adults.  These impairments do not fit comfortably into any of the other medical systems.  The multiple body system is made up of diseases like Down's Syndrome and other catastrophic congenital disorders.
 

General Evaluation

The multiple body designation is used to illustrate the fact that diseases in this category often affect two or more body systems. When evaluating these impairments, think genetics.  Most of the disorders in the multiple body system are of a genetic origin. Since they exist from birth, they are often referred to as congenital disorders. 

With a congenital disorder, Social Security does not necessarily require a genetic profile in order to accept the diagnosis.  Because multiple body disorders usually affect children, Social Security is a bit more lenient with its documentation requirements.  If the disability advocate can reasonably show with current medical evidence that the claimant does in fact suffer from a genetic disorder, this level of evidence will usually suffice as proof of the existence of the disease state.  No special genetic tests are required.

In respect to congenital disorders in both children and adults, the disease must be catastrophic and/or life threatening.  For example, a congenital defect of one foot, although disabling, would not rise to the level of catastrophic.  Some disease states that would rise to this level are:

Down's Syndrome
Congenital defects of the heart and other major organs
Congenital defects of multiple sensory organs (combination deaf and blind, etc.)

There are several other important diseases of the multiple body system which are not discussed here.  For additional information about diseases of the multi body system and how they are evaluated by Social Security, see full discussion link.