Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases), 76507-76519 [2013-30088]

Download as PDF Vol. 78 Tuesday, No. 242 December 17, 2013 Part V Social Security Administration wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 20 CFR Part 404 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases); Proposed Rule VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4717 Sfmt 4717 E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 76508 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 20 CFR Part 404 [Docket No. SSA–2011–0098] RIN 0960–AH43 Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) Social Security Administration. Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: ACTION: We propose to revise the criteria in parts A and B of the Listing of Impairments (listings) that we use to evaluate cases involving cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases) in adults and children under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act (Act). These proposed revisions reflect our adjudicative experience, advances in medical knowledge, and recommendations from medical experts we consulted, as well as public comments we received on methods of evaluating cancer. DATES: To ensure that your comments are considered, we must receive them no later than February 18, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by one of three methods—Internet, fax, or mail. Do not submit the same comments multiple times or by more than one method. Regardless of which method you choose, please state that your comments refer to Docket No. SSA–2011–0098 so that we may associate your comments with the correct regulation. Caution: You should be careful to include in your comments only information that you wish to make publicly available. We strongly urge you not to include in your comments any personal information, such as your Social Security number or medical information. 1. Internet: We recommend that you submit your comments via the Internet. Please visit the Federal eRulemaking portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Use the Search function to find docket number SSA–2011–0098. The system will issue a tracking number to confirm your submission. You will not be able to view your comment immediately because we must post each comment manually. It may take up to a week for your comment to be viewable. 2. Fax: Fax comments to (410) 966– 2830. 3. Mail: Address your comments to the Office of Regulations and Reports Clearance, Social Security Administration, 107 Altmeyer Building, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21235–6401. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 Comments are available for public viewing on the Federal eRulemaking portal at https://www.regulations.gov, or in person, during regular business hours, by arranging with the contact person identified below. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cheryl A. Williams, Office of Medical Listings Improvement, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21235– 6401, (410) 965–1020. For information on eligibility or filing for benefits, call our national toll-free number, 1–800– 772–1213 or TTY 1–800–325–0778, or visit our Internet site, Social Security Online, at https:// www.socialsecurity.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: What revisions are we proposing? We propose to: • Change the name of this body system; • Add several new listings and revise some current ones; • Revise the introductory text of these listings to provide more information about how we evaluate cancer and to reflect the new listings; and • Make editorial changes throughout the rules to make the rules internally consistent. Why are we proposing to make these changes? We last issued final rules revising these listings on October 6, 2009, effective November 5, 2009.1 We stated in the preamble of the final rules that we would continue to monitor these listings and revise them, if warranted, before their eight-year effective period ends in 2017. These proposed revisions reflect our adjudicative experience, advances in medical knowledge, and recommendations from medical experts we consulted. They also reflect public comments we received on a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that we published in 2008 before issuing the final rules in 2009.2 We did not address these public comments at the time because they were outside the scope of the 2008 NPRM. Why are we proposing to change the name of this body system? We propose to change the name of this body system from ‘‘Malignant Neoplastic Diseases’’ to ‘‘Cancer’’ to improve clarity and ease of use of the listings. While both terms represent the same condition, ‘‘cancer’’ is a more 1 74 FR 51229. FR 22871 (April 28, 2008). Public comments are available at https://www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;rpp=10;po=0;D=SSA-2007-0066. 2 73 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 commonly used term, and more recognized by the lay public and by health care professionals. The phrase ‘‘malignant neoplastic disease’’ is a term used almost exclusively, although infrequently, by health care professionals. We would also replace the term ‘‘malignant neoplastic diseases’’ with the term ‘‘cancer’’ in the introductory text and listings. What changes are we proposing to make in the introductory text of the listings for evaluating cancer in adults? The following is a detailed explanation of the significant changes we would make to the introductory text: Proposed Section 13.00E—When do we need longitudinal evidence? We propose to restructure current section 13.00E3 for clarity. We would also add proposed 13.00E3c to clarify how we evaluate cancer treated with multimodal antineoplastic therapy under certain listings. We would explain that we need evidence under current listings 13.02E, 13.11D, and 13.14C to establish that the treating source has initiated multimodal therapy. We also explain that we may defer adjudication if the treating source plans multimodal therapy but has not yet initiated it. Proposed Section 13.00I—What do we mean by the following terms? We propose several changes in section 13.00I: • We would add the term ‘‘antineoplastic therapy’’ to the list of defined terms. We would move the definition of ‘‘antineoplastic therapy’’ from current section 13.00B3 to proposed section 13.00I1. This change will make it easier for our adjudicators to find the definition for ‘‘antineoplastic therapy.’’ We would renumber the definitions in proposed section 13.00I that follow the definition for ‘‘antineoplastic therapy.’’ • We would revise and expand the definition of the term ‘‘persistent’’ in current section 13.00I4 (proposed section 13.00I5) to reflect how the meaning of this term relates to the outcome of initial antineoplastic therapy. Similarly, we would revise and expand the definition of the term ‘‘progressive’’ in current section 13.00I5 (proposed section 13.00I6) to reflect how its meaning relates to the outcome of therapy. • We would revise and expand the definition of the term ‘‘unresectable’’ in current section 13.00I7 (proposed section 13.00I8) to explain situations in which positive surgical margins would not indicate unresectable cancer. We E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 propose this change because the initial surgery may be followed by additional surgery that eliminates the positive surgical margins. Proposed Section 13.00K—How do we evaluate specific cancers? We propose several changes to current section 13.00K: • We would revise current section 13.00K2b to explain that we consider chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) to be in the ‘‘accelerated’’ or ‘‘blast’’ phase when the proportion of blast (immature) cells in the peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater. We propose this change in response to questions we have received from our adjudicators. • We would remove the word ‘‘ordinarily’’ from current section 13.00K2d to clarify that we do not consider an increase in a person’s white blood cell count alone to be sufficient evidence to determine the severity of chronic leukemia. The word ‘‘ordinarily’’ may be misinterpreted to mean there are some situations in which an increase in the white blood cell count by itself may determine severity, and this interpretation would be contrary to our intent. • We would revise and expand current section 13.00K3 to explain that we can evaluate macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease under current listing 13.05A2. We would make this change to recognize that current medical practice may treat macroglobulinemia as an indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We also explain that we may evaluate macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease under the appropriate listings in the hematological body system (7.00). We would make a similar change in current section 13.00K2cii to explain that we may evaluate the complications and residual impairments from chronic lymphocytic leukemia under the appropriate listings in the hematological body system. • We would make two changes to revise and expand current section 13.00K4. First, we would use the broader heading, ‘‘Primary breast cancer,’’ rather than the current heading, ‘‘Bilateral primary breast cancer.’’ Second, we would add guidance to explain how we evaluate secondary lymphedema resulting from breast cancer treatment under proposed listing 13.10E. We would continue to include guidance in the revised section to explain how we evaluate bilateral primary breast cancer under current listing 13.10A. • We would reorganize and revise section 13.00K6 to explain why we evaluate specific central nervous system VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 (CNS) cancers by diagnosis alone, unlike other CNS cancers that we evaluate based on a World Health Organization (WHO) grade. We also explain that we use the criteria in listing 13.13 to evaluate ‘‘primary central nervous system cancers,’’ which means cancers that originate within the central nervous system, that is, brain and spinal cord cancers. • We would add section 13.00K7 to explain that we can evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women under current listing 13.23E for ovarian cancer. This change responds to a public comment on the 2008 NPRM that suggested we provide guidance for evaluating this type of cancer. We can evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women under listing 13.23E because the disease course, treatment, and outcome are more similar to ovarian cancer than other cancers. We also explain that we can evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in men under current listing 13.15A for malignant mesothelioma because many of these cases in men are similar to malignant mesothelioma. • We would add section 13.00K8 to explain that current listing 13.24A for recurrent prostate cancer does not include ‘‘biochemical recurrence,’’ as measured with the cancer biomarker prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Although the PSA biomarker may track the progression of the person’s prostate cancer, we do not consider PSA useful in determining disability because its values do not necessarily correlate with a person’s degree of functional impairment. • We would add section 13.00K9 to explain that we evaluate any malignant melanoma under proposed new listing 13.29. As we note in our detailed explanation of proposed 13.29 below, malignant melanoma may occur in places besides the skin, such as in the eyes and mucosal membranes. The proposed listing provides comprehensive criteria to reflect the full range of malignant melanomas. We would also explain that we evaluate benign melanoma under the listings in 8.00 or other affected body systems. Proposed Section 13.00L—How do we evaluate cancer treatment by bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood? We would revise current section 13.00L to further explain how we evaluate cancers treated with bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood. We explain that the transplantation must PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 76509 occur before we will evaluate it under the listings. We also explain that we may establish an onset date of disability that is earlier than the date of the transplantation, or the date of first treatment in a treatment regimen that includes transplantation, if an earlier onset date is consistent with the evidence in the case record. How do we propose to revise the criteria in the listings for evaluating cancer in adults? We propose to add a criterion in several of the listings for evaluating small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. We currently only have a listing for smallcell carcinoma in the lungs (listing 13.14). Small-cell carcinoma may originate in places in the body other than the lungs. We would add a criterion for small-cell carcinoma to the listings for these other places.3 We propose this change in light of our adjudicative experience and the current medical literature establishing that in most instances small-cell carcinomas are of listing-level severity regardless of where they occur in the body. Proposed Listing 13.02—Soft Tissue Cancers of the Head and Neck (Except Salivary Glands—13.08—and Thyroid Gland—13.09) We propose to revise current listing 13.02 for soft tissue cancer of the head and neck by removing the requirement for persistent disease following initial multimodal antineoplastic therapy from current listing 13.02B. Based on our adjudicative experience and information from medical experts, we believe persistent cancer following a treatment plan using only a single mode of therapy (for example, solely radiation) is also an indication of head and neck cancer of listing-level severity. We would evaluate cancer that is either persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy under proposed listing 13.02B. We would delete current listing 13.02C because we would also evaluate recurrent cancer under proposed listing 13.02B. We would also redesignate current listing 13.02D as listing 13.02C. In proposed 13.02B, we also propose to exclude cancer in the true vocal cords that is persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. 3 The criterion for evaluating small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma would be added under these proposed listings: 13.02D for soft tissue cancers of the head and neck; 13.10D for cancer of the breast; 13.15C for cancer of the pleura and mediastinum; 13.16C for cancer of the esophagus or stomach; 13.17C for cancer of the small intestine; 13.18D for cancer of the large intestine; 13.22E for cancer of the urinary bladder; 13.23F for cancers of the female genital tract; and 13.24C for cancers of the prostate gland. E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 76510 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules ‘‘sinuses.’’ We believe the proposed editorial change will make the current sentence structure clearer. Physicians often treat cancer at this location with radiation therapy to preserve the larynx, but if the cancer persists or recurs, they are able to remove the cancer with surgery. Proposed Listing 13.03—Skin (Except Malignant Melanoma—13.29) We would revise current listing 13.03 by adding a criterion, proposed listing 13.03B, to evaluate skin cancer that invades deep extradermal structures, such as skeletal muscle, cartilage, or bone. Skin cancer with these findings is often unresectable. We propose to add this criterion to be consistent with the criteria for other cancers that are unresectable and to recognize the poor prognosis for this condition. We would evaluate malignant melanoma of the skin under proposed listing 13.29, which we explain in more detail below. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 Proposed Listing 13.05—Lymphoma (Including Mycosis Fungoides, But Excluding T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma—13.06) We would add proposed listing 13.05A3 for evaluating mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), a high-grade, nonHodgkin lymphoma. Current medical practice is unable to achieve a longlasting remission in MCL or significantly increase a person’s life expectancy. Similar to other cancers (for example, liver or gallbladder cancer) with a very poor prognosis, we would consider a person disabled on a confirmed diagnosis of MCL. Proposed Listing 13.10—Breast (Except Sarcoma—13.04) Secondary lymphedema that results from breast cancer treatment (for example, radiation treatment) may advance to the point that the person needs surgery to treat the lymphedema and restore the functional use of an upper extremity. We propose to add listing 13.10E to find the person disabled for at least 12 months from the date of this surgery that treated the secondary lymphedema. After that, we would evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. We propose this new criterion to recognize the debilitating effects of advanced secondary lymphedema, as well as the time needed to recover from the surgery. Proposed Listing 13.12—Maxilla, Orbit, or Temporal Fossa We propose to make a minor editorial change to current listing 13.12C by moving the term ‘‘base of the skull’’ to the end of the sentence. We do not intend for the word ‘‘base’’ in this term to apply to the ‘‘orbit,’’ ‘‘meninges,’’ or VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 Proposed Listing 13.13—Nervous System We propose to reorganize and revise current 13.13A. We would list separately in proposed listings 13.13A1 and 13.13A2 highly malignant primary CNS cancers that we consider to be of listing-level severity by diagnosis alone. These CNS cancers include Grade III and Grade IV astrocytomas, and medulloblastoma and other primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs). We would no longer require highly malignant PNETs to have documented metastases. Our adjudicative experience and the current medical literature establish that Grade III and Grade IV PNETs do not respond well to treatment and in most instances have a poor prognosis. We would evaluate all other primary CNS cancers, including lowgrade PNETs, under proposed 13.13A3 or 13.13B. Proposed Listing 13.20—Pancreas We propose to make a minor editorial change to current listing 13.20B for islet cell cancer of the pancreas in response to questions from our adjudicators. We would reorganize the listing to clarify that the requirement of ‘‘physiologically active’’ cancer applies to tumors that are either inoperable or unresectable. Proposed Listing 13.23—Cancers of the Female Genital Tract—Carcinoma or Sarcoma (Including Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma) We propose to add listing 13.23B3 for cervical cancer that has spread to distant (for example, para-aortic or supraclavicular) lymph nodes. Current medical literature establishes that cervical cancer with involvement of distant lymph nodes is associated with a poor prognosis and short-term survival, as well as a high recurrence rate. We also propose to make a minor editorial change in current listing 13.23E1a for ovarian cancer to clarify that the spread of the cancer beyond the pelvis includes direct extension of the tumor. We currently find claimants who have direct tumor extension to the peritoneal, omental, or bowel surfaces to be disabled based on medical equivalence to the current listing. Proposed Listing 13.29—Malignant Melanoma (Including Skin, Ocular, or Mucosal Melanomas) We propose to evaluate malignant melanoma separately from other cancers that involve the skin. We would move PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 the criteria for evaluating malignant melanoma in skin from current listing 13.03B to proposed new listing 13.29. We would also evaluate malignant melanoma in the eye (ocular melanoma) and malignant melanoma in mucous membranes (mucosal melanoma) under the proposed listing. This change recognizes that malignant melanoma that originates in the eye or mucous membrane constitutes an impairment of listing-level severity. We also propose an identical listing for evaluating malignant melanoma in children (proposed listing 113.29). We currently find all such children disabled based on medical equivalence to listing 13.03B. Other Proposed Changes We would make nonsubstantive editorial revisions throughout these proposed rules to clarify the introductory text and listings. For example, we propose to change the term ‘‘tumor’’ to ‘‘cancer’’ in the sections of the introductory text where it is obvious that the rules apply to cancerous tumors. These editorial revisions would also include updating the medical terminology in the listings. For example, we would replace the term ‘‘Hodgkin’s disease’’ with the term ‘‘Hodgkin lymphoma’’ to reflect how the medical community currently refers to this cancer. What specific changes are we proposing to make in the introductory text of the listings for evaluating cancer in children? We propose to make the following changes to the introductory text of the childhood listings that correspond with the changes we are proposing for the introductory text of the adult listings: • Move the definition for ‘‘antineoplastic therapy’’ from current section 113.00B3 to proposed section 113.00I1. • Revise the definition of ‘‘persistence’’ in proposed section 113.00I4 and revise the definition of ‘‘progressive’’ in proposed section 113.00I5. • Revise current section 113.00K2b to explain that CML is in the accelerated or blast phase if the proportion of blast cells in the peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater. • Remove the word ‘‘ordinarily’’ in current section 113.00K2d. • Revise current section 113.00K3 to provide more information about which solid tumor cancers we evaluate under listing 113.03 and which we evaluate under other listings in this body system. • Revise current section 113.00K4 to explain that we evaluate primary CNS cancers under listing 113.13.We would E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules also list primary CNS cancers that are highly malignant. • Add guidance in current section 113.00L for evaluating cancers treated with bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood. • Make minor editorial changes to make the child introductory text consistent with the adult introductory text. What is our authority to make rules and set procedures for determining whether a person is disabled under the statutory definition? Under the Act, we have full power and authority to make rules and regulations and to establish necessary and appropriate procedures to carry out such provisions.4 How long would these proposed rules be effective? If we publish these proposed rules as final rules, they would remain in effect for 5 years after the date they become effective, unless we extend them, or revise and issue them again. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 How do we propose to revise the criteria in the listings for evaluating cancer in children? We would revise the headings of current listings 113.05 and 113.06 to indicate that we evaluate all types of lymphoblastic lymphomas (not just the T-cell lymphomas) under 113.06. In making this change in the headings of the current listings, we would remove the specific reference to ‘‘T-cell lymphomas’’ in 113.05 and 113.06. We would also revise current listing 113.05 for evaluating non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin lymphoma to recognize that these cancers in children require treatment regimens that are very toxic and prolonged when they have spread to the bone marrow or to visceral organs, such as the brain, liver, or lung. With this level of cancer involvement, we would consider a child with NHL or Hodgkin lymphoma to be under a disability for 24 months from the date of diagnosis without regard to the effectiveness of treatment. After that, we would evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. We are not proposing similar revisions to current listings 13.05 and 13.06 for lymphomas and leukemias in adults. Pediatric lymphomas and leukemias behave differently, as they are more aggressive and more difficult to treat than most adult lymphomas and leukemias. We would also add proposed listing 113.05D that is the same as the proposed adult listing for evaluating mantle cell lymphoma. We would add proposed listing 113.13C to evaluate cancers of the CNS in children that are metastatic. We would also use proposed 113.13C to evaluate cancers of the CNS in children that are progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. We currently find disabled all children with the CNS cancer described in the proposed listing based on medical equivalence to current listing 13.13A2. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 Clarity of These Proposed Rules Executive Order 12866, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563, requires each agency to write all rules in plain language. In addition to your substantive comments on these proposed rules, we invite your comments on how to make them easier to understand. For example: • Would more, but shorter sections be better? • Are the requirements in the rules clearly stated? • Have we organized the material to suit your needs? • Could we improve clarity by adding tables, lists, or diagrams? • What else could we do to make the rules easier to understand? • Do the rules contain technical language or jargon that is not clear? • Would a different format make the rules easier to understand, such as grouping and order of sections, use of headings, paragraphing? When will we start to use these rules? We will not use these rules until we evaluate public comments and publish final rules in the Federal Register. All final rules we issue include an effective date. We will continue to use our current rules until that date. If we publish final rules, we will include a summary of the relevant comments we received, along with responses, and an explanation of how we will apply the new rules. Regulatory Procedures Executive Order 12866, as Supplemented by Executive Order 13563 We consulted with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and determined that these proposed rules 4 Sections 205(a), 702(a)(5), and 1631(d)(1) of the Act. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 76511 meet the criteria for a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563. Therefore, OMB reviewed them. Regulatory Flexibility Act We certify that these proposed rules would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities because they affect individuals only. Therefore, the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, does not require us to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis. Paperwork Reduction Act These proposed rules do not create any new, or affect any existing, collections and do not require OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act. References We consulted the following references when we developed these proposed rules: Brandes, A.B., et al., Adult neuroectodermal tumors of posterior fossa (medulloblastoma) and of supratentorial sites (stPNET), Critical Reviews in Oncology Hematology, Aug;71(2), 165– 179 (2009). doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc. Chang, D.W., Lymphaticovenular bypass for lymphedema management in breast cancer patients: A prospective study, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sep;126(3), 752–758 (2010). doi: 10.1055/s-0032–1323762. Chen, C.I., Treatment for Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia, Annals of Oncology, Apr;15(4), 550–558 (2004) (available at: https://annonc.oxfordjournals.org/ content/15/4/550.full). doi: 10.1093/ annonc/mdh128. Chen, J., et al., Incidence, mortality, and prognostic factors of small-cell carcinoma of the cervix, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Jun;111(6), 1394–1402 (2008). Doi: 10.1097/ AOG.0b013e31817370b. Choueiri, T.K., et al., Impact of postoperative prostate-specific antigen disease recurrence and the use of salvage therapy on the risk of death, Cancer, Apr;116(8), 1887–1892 (2010) (available at: https:// onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ cncr.25013/pdf). doi: 10.1002/ cncr.25013. Chung, B.I., et al., Comparison of prostate cancer tumor volume and percent cancer in prediction of biochemical recurrence and cancer specific survival, Urologic Oncology, May-Jun;29(3), 314–318 (2011), electronic publication ahead of print available at: https://www.urologiconcology.org/article/ S1078–1439(09)00199–9/abstract. doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2009.06.017. Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study Group, The COMS randomized trial of iodine 125 brachytherapy for choroidal melanoma: V. 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Karkhaneh, R., et al., Long-term surgical outcome of posterior choroidal melanoma treated by endoresection, Retina, Sep;27(7), 908–914 (2007). Kenney, B., et al., Primary malignant melanoma of the transverse colon: Report of a case and review of literature, International Journal of Surgical Pathology, Oct;15(4), 401–407 (2007). Kidd, E.A., et al., Lymph node staging by positron emission tomography in cervical cancer: Relationship to prognosis, Journal of Clinical Oncology, Apr;28(12), 2108–2113 (2010). doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.25.4151. Kim, J.H., et al., Extrapulmonary small-cell carcinoma: A single-institution experience, Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology, May;34(5), 250–254 (2004) (available at: https:// jjco.oxfordjournals.org/content/34/5/ 250.full.pdf+html). Kliegman, R.M., et al., eds., Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, Nineteenth Edition, Philadelphia: Saunders, 2011. Madan, V., et al., Non-melanoma skin cancer, The Lancet, Feb;375(9715), 673–685 VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 (2010). doi: 10.1016/S0140– 6736(09)61196–X. Mansor, S., et al., Borderline ovarian mucinous neoplasm recurring as smallcell carcinoma of hypercalcemic type: Evidence for an epithelial histogenesis and relationship with ovarian mucinous tumors for this enigmatic neoplasm, International Journal of Gynecological Pathology, Jul;30(4), 380–385 (2011). doi: 10.1097/PGP.0b013e318209aebc. McLean, N., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck. Comparison of clinical presentation and histopathologic features of oral and sinonasal melanoma, Oral Oncology, Nov;44(11), 1039–1046 (2008). doi: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2008.01.014. Mendenhal, W.M., et al., Head and neck mucosal melanoma, American Journal of Clinical Oncology, Dec;28(6), 626–630 (2005) (available at: https:// oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/pdf/ melanoma.pdf). Mueller, S., et al., Pediatric brain tumors: Current treatment strategies for future therapeutic approaches, Neurotherapeutics: The Journal of the American Society for Experimental Neurotherapeutics, Jul;6(3), 570–586 (2009). doi: 10.1016/j.nurt.2009. Nofech-Mozes, S., et al., Immunophenotyping of serous carcinoma of the female genital tract, Modern Pathology, Sep;21(9), 1147–1155 (2008) (available at: https:// www.nature.com/modpathol/journal/ v21/n9/full/modpathol2008108a.html). doi: 10.1038/modpathol.2008.108. Obrador-Hevia, A., et al., Molecular biology of mantle cell lymphoma: From profiling studies to new therapeutic strategies, Blood Reviews, Sep;23(5), 205–216 (2009). doi: 10.1016/j.blre.2009.03.001. Patrick, R.J., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, May;56(5), 828–834 (2007). Pentheroudakis, G., et al., Serous papillary peritoneal carcinoma: Unknown primary tumour, ovarian cancer counterpart or distinct entity? A systematic review, Critical Reviews in Oncology Hematology, Jul;75(1), 27–42 (2010). doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2009.10.003. Pizer, B., et al., Treatment of recurrent central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumours in children and adolescents: Results of a Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group study, European Journal of Cancer, Jun;47(9), 1389–1397 (2011). doi: 10.1016/ j.ejca.2011.03.004. Prasad, M.L., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck: A proposal for microstaging localized, stage 1 (lymph node-negative) tumors, Cancer, Apr;100(8), 1657–1664 (2004). Rineer, J., et al., Small-cell carcinoma of the breast, Journal of the National Medical Association, Oct;101(10), 1061–1064 (2009). Sakorafas, G.H., et al., Lymphedema following axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer, Surgical Oncology, Nov;15(3), 153–165 (2006). PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Schefler, A. C., et al., Brachytherapy for uveal melanoma: New Developments and controversies, Retinal Physician, (2009) (available at: https:// www.retinalphysician.com/ printarticle.aspx?article=103458). Sinacki, M., et al., Pattern of care in locally advanced breast cancer: Focus on local therapy, The Breast, Apr;20(2), 145–150 (2011). doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2010.08.008. Soto, D.E., et al., Limited-stage extrapulmonary small-cell carcinoma: Outcomes after modern chemotherapy and radiotherapy, The Cancer Journal, Aug;13(4), 243–246 (2007). Suami, H., et al., Overview of surgical treatments for breast cancer-related lymphedema, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dec;126(6), 1853–1863 (2010). doi: 10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181f44658. Walsh, S.H., et al., Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia derives from an extensively hypermutated B cell that lacks ongoing somatic hypermutation, Leukemia Research, Jul;29(7), 729–734 (2005). Warren, A.G., et al., Lymphedema: A comprehensive review, Annals of Plastic Surgery, Oct;59(4), 464–472 (2007). Yii, NW., et al., Mucosal malignant melanoma of the head and neck: The Marsden experience over half a century, Clinical Oncology, Jun;15(4), 199–204 (2003). We included these references in the rulemaking record for these proposed rules and will make them available for inspection by interested individuals who make arrangements with the contact person above. (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 96.001, Social Security— Disability Insurance; 96.002, Social Security—Retirement Insurance; 96.004, Social Security—Survivors Insurance; and 96.006, Supplemental Security Income) List of Subjects in 20 CFR Part 404 Administrative practice and procedure, Blind, Disability benefits, Old-age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Social security. Dated: December 6, 2013. Carolyn W. Colvin, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. For the reasons set out in the preamble, we propose to amend 20 CFR chapter III part 404 subpart P as set forth below: PART 404—FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY INSURANCE (1950–) Subpart P—Determining Disability and Blindness 1. The authority citation for subpart P of part 404 continues to read as follows: ■ E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules Authority: Secs. 202, 205(a)–(b) and (d)– (h), 216(i), 221(a), (i), and (j), 222(c), 223, 225, and 702(a)(5) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 402, 405(a)–(b), and (d)–(h), 416(i), 421(a), (i), and (j), 422(c), 423, 425, and 902(a)(5)); sec. 211(b), Pub. L. 104–193, 110 Stat. 2105, 2189; sec. 202, Pub. L. 108–203, 118 Stat. 509 (42 U.S.C. 902 note). 2. Amend appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 as follows: ■ a. Revise item 14 of the introductory text before part A of appendix 1. ■ b. Amend part A by revising the body system name for section 13.00 in the table of contents. ■ c. Revise section 13.00 of part A of appendix 1. ■ d. Amend listing 13.02 of part A of appendix 1 by revising the heading, revising current listing 13.02B, deleting current listing 13.02C, redesignating current listing 13.02D as 13.02C, and adding new listings 13.02D and 13.02E. ■ e. Amend listing 13.03 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing 13.03B. ■ f. Amend listing 13.05 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing 13.05A2, adding listing 13.05A3 and replacing the word ‘‘disease’’ with the word ‘‘lymphoma’’ in listing 13.05B. ■ g. Amend listing 13.06 of part A of appendix 1 by adding a cross-reference in the first sentence of listing 13.06B1. ■ h. Amend listing 13.10 of part A of appendix 1 by revising 13.10A, adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.10C, and adding listings 13.10D and 13.10E. ■ i. Amend listing 13.11 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word ‘‘tumor’’ in listing 13.11B with the word ‘‘cancer’’ and the word ‘‘tumors’’ in listing 13.11D with the word ‘‘cancers,’’ and adding a cross-reference to the first sentence of listing 13.11D. ■ j. Amend listing 13.12 of part A of appendix 1 by revising 13.12C. ■ k. Revise listing 13.13 of part A of appendix 1. ■ l. Amend listing 13.14 of part A of appendix 1 by adding a cross-reference in the first sentence of listing 13.14C. ■ m. Amend listing 13.15 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.15B, and adding listing 13.15C. ■ n. Amend listing 13.16 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.16B, and adding listing 13.16C. ■ o. Amend listing 13.17 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.17B, and adding listing 13.17C. ■ p. Amend listing 13.18 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.18C, and adding listing 13.18D. ■ q. Amend listing 13.19 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word ‘‘tumors’’ with the word ‘‘cancer.’’ wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 ■ VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 r. Amend listing 13.20 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing 13.20B. ■ s. Amend listing 13.22 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.22D, and adding listing 13.22E. ■ t. Amend listing 13.23 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listings 13.23B and 13.23E, adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.23E, and adding listing 13.23F. ■ u. Amend listing 13.24 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing 13.24A, adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 13.24B, and adding listing 13.24C. ■ v. Amend listing 13.25 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word ‘‘tumor’’ with the word ‘‘cancer.’’ ■ w. Amend listing 13.28 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the phrase ‘‘malignant neoplastic diseases’’ with the word ‘‘cancer.’’ ■ x. Add listing 13.29 after listing 13.28 of part A of appendix 1. ■ y. Revise section 113.00 of part B of appendix 1. ■ z. Amend listing 113.03 of part B of appendix 1 by changing the phrase ‘‘2 years’’ to the phrase ‘‘24 months’’ in listings 113.03A and 113.03B. ■ aa. Amend listing 113.05 of part B of appendix 1 by revising listings 113.05A and 113.05B, adding the word ‘‘OR’’ after listing 113.05C, and adding listing 113.05D. ■ bb. Amend listing 113.06 of part B of appendix 1 by revising the first sentence of listing 113.06A and adding a crossreference to the first sentence of listing 113.06B1. ■ cc. Revise listing 113.13 of part B of appendix 1. ■ dd. Add listing 113.29 after listing 113.21 of part B of appendix 1. The revisions and additions read as follows: ■ Appendix 1 to Subpart P of Part 404— Listing of Impairments * * * * * 14. Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) (13.00 and 113.00): [DATE 5 YEARS AFTER EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE FINAL RULES]. * * * * * * * * Part A * * 13.00 Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) * * * * * 13.00 CANCER (MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES) A. What impairments do these listings cover? We use these listings to evaluate all cancers (malignant neoplastic diseases), except certain cancers associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. If you have HIV infection, we use the criteria in 14.08E to evaluate carcinoma PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 76513 of the cervix, Kaposi sarcoma, lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal and anal margin. B. What do we consider when we evaluate cancer under these listings? We will consider factors including: 1. Origin of the cancer. 2. Extent of involvement. 3. Duration, frequency, and response to antineoplastic therapy. 4. Effects of any post-therapeutic residuals. C. How do we apply these listings? We apply the criteria in a specific listing to a cancer originating from that specific site. D. What evidence do we need? 1. We need medical evidence that specifies the type, extent, and site of the primary, recurrent, or metastatic lesion. When the primary site cannot be identified, we will use evidence documenting the site(s) of metastasis to evaluate the impairment under 13.27. 2. For operative procedures, including a biopsy or a needle aspiration, we generally need a copy of both the: a. Operative note, and b. Pathology report. 3. When we cannot get these documents, we will accept the summary of hospitalization(s) or other medical reports. This evidence should include details of the findings at surgery and, whenever appropriate, the pathological findings. 4. In some situations, we may also need evidence about recurrence, persistence, or progression of the cancer, the response to therapy, and any significant residuals. (See 13.00G.) E. When do we need longitudinal evidence? 1. Cancer with distant metastases. We generally do not need longitudinal evidence for cancer that has metastasized beyond the regional lymph nodes because this cancer usually meets the requirements of a listing. Exceptions are for cancer with distant metastases that we expect to respond to antineoplastic therapy. For these exceptions, we usually need a longitudinal record of 3 months after therapy starts to determine whether the therapy achieved its intended effect, and whether this effect is likely to persist. 2. Other cancers. When there are no distant metastases, many of the listings require that we consider your response to initial antineoplastic therapy; that is, the initial planned treatment regimen. This therapy may consist of a single modality or a combination of modalities; that is, multimodal therapy. (See 13.00I4.) 3. Types of treatment. a. Whenever the initial planned therapy is a single modality, enough time must pass to allow a determination about whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect. If the treatment fails, the failure often happens within 6 months after treatment starts, and there will often be a change in the treatment regimen. b. Whenever the initial planned therapy is multimodal, we usually cannot make a determination about the effectiveness of the therapy until we can determine the effects of all the planned modalities. In some cases, we may need to defer adjudication until we can assess the effectiveness of therapy. However, E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 76514 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules we do not need to defer adjudication to determine whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect if we can make a fully favorable determination or decision based on the length and effects of therapy, or the residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 13.00G). c. We need evidence under 13.02E, 13.11D, and 13.14C to establish that your treating source initiated multimodal antineoplastic therapy. We do not need to make a determination about the length or effectiveness of your therapy. Multimodal therapy has been initiated, and satisfies the requirements in 13.02E, 13.11D, and 13.14C, when your treating source starts the first modality. We may defer adjudication if your treating source plans multimodal therapy and has not yet initiated it. F. How do we evaluate impairments that do not meet one of the cancer listings? 1. These listings are only examples of cancer that we consider severe enough to prevent you from doing any gainful activity. If your severe impairment(s) does not meet the criteria of any of these listings, we must also consider whether you have an impairment(s) that meets the criteria of a listing in another body system. 2. If you have a severe medically determinable impairment(s) that does not meet a listing, we will determine whether your impairment(s) medically equals a listing. (See §§ 404.1526 and 416.926 of this chapter.) If your impairment(s) does not meet or medically equal a listing, you may or may not have the residual functional capacity to engage in substantial gainful activity. In that situation, we proceed to the fourth, and, if necessary, the fifth steps of the sequential evaluation process in §§ 404.1520 and 416.920 of this chapter. We use the rules in §§ 404.1594 and 416.994 of this chapter, as appropriate, when we decide whether you continue to be disabled. G. How do we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy? 1. How we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy under the listings. In many cases, cancers meet listing criteria only if the therapy is not effective and the cancer persists, progresses, or recurs. However, as explained in the following paragraphs, we will not delay adjudication if we can make a fully favorable determination or decision based on the evidence in the case record. 2. Effects can vary widely. a. We consider each case on an individual basis because the therapy and its toxicity may vary widely. We will request a specific description of the therapy, including these items: i. Drugs given. ii. Dosage. iii. Frequency of drug administration. iv. Plans for continued drug administration. v. Extent of surgery. vi. Schedule and fields of radiation therapy. b. We will also request a description of the complications or adverse effects of therapy, such as the following: i. Continuing gastrointestinal symptoms. ii. Persistent weakness. iii. Neurological complications. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 iv. Cardiovascular complications. v. Reactive mental disorders. 3. Effects of therapy may change. The severity of the adverse effects of antineoplastic therapy may change during treatment; therefore, enough time must pass to allow us to evaluate the therapy’s effect. The residual effects of treatment are temporary in most instances; however, on occasion, the effects may be disabling for a consecutive period of at least 12 months. 4. When the initial antineoplastic therapy is effective. We evaluate any post-therapeutic residual impairment(s) not included in these listings under the criteria for the affected body system. We must consider any complications of therapy. When the residual impairment(s) does not meet or medically equal a listing, we must consider its effect on your ability to do substantial gainful activity. H. How long do we consider your impairment to be disabling? 1. In some listings, we specify that we consider your impairment to be disabling until a particular point in time (for example, at least 12 months from the date of diagnosis). We may consider your impairment to be disabling beyond this point when the medical and other evidence justifies it. 2. When a listing does not contain such a specification, we will consider an impairment(s) that meets or medically equals a listing in this body system to be disabling until at least 3 years after onset of complete remission. When the impairment(s) has been in complete remission for at least 3 years, that is, the original tumor or a recurrence (or relapse) and any metastases have not been evident for at least 3 years, the impairment(s) will no longer meet or medically equal the criteria of a listing in this body system. 3. Following the appropriate period, we will consider any residuals, including residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 13.00G), in determining whether you are disabled. If you have a recurrence or relapse of your cancer, your impairment may meet or medically equal one of the listings in this body system again. I. What do we mean by the following terms? 1. Antineoplastic therapy means surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormones, immunotherapy, or bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. When we refer to surgery as an antineoplastic treatment, we mean surgical excision for treatment, not for diagnostic purposes. 2. Inoperable means surgery is thought to be of no therapeutic value or the surgery cannot be performed; for example, when you cannot tolerate anesthesia or surgery because of another impairment(s), or you have a cancer that is too large or that has invaded crucial structures. This term does not include situations in which your cancer could have been surgically removed but another method of treatment was chosen; for example, an attempt at organ preservation. Your physician may determine whether the cancer is inoperable before or after you receive neoadjuvant therapy. Neoadjuvant therapy is antineoplastic therapy, such as chemotherapy or radiation, given before surgery in order to reduce the size of the cancer. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 3. Metastases means the spread of cancer cells by blood, lymph, or other body fluid. This term does not include the spread of cancer cells by direct extension of the cancer to other tissues or organs. 4. Multimodal therapy means antineoplastic therapy that is given as a combination of at least two types of treatment given in close proximity as a unified whole and usually planned before any treatment has begun. There are three types of treatment modalities: surgery, radiation, and systemic drug therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy or biological modifier therapy). Examples of multimodal therapy include: a. Surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation. b. Chemotherapy followed by surgery. c. Chemotherapy and concurrent radiation. 5. Persistent means the planned initial antineoplastic therapy failed to achieve a complete remission of your cancer; that is, your cancer is evident, even if smaller, after the therapy has ended. 6. Progressive means the cancer becomes more extensive after treatment; that is, there is evidence that your cancer is growing after you have completed at least half of your planned initial antineoplastic therapy. 7. Recurrent or relapse means the cancer that was in complete remission or entirely removed by surgery has returned. 8. Unresectable means surgery or surgeries did not completely remove the cancer. This term includes situations in which your cancer is incompletely resected or the surgical margins are positive. It does not include situations in which there is a finding of a positive margin(s) if additional surgery obtains a margin(s) that is clear. It also does not include situations in which the cancer is completely resected but you are receiving adjuvant therapy. Adjuvant therapy is antineoplastic therapy, such as chemotherapy or radiation, given after surgery in order to eliminate any remaining cancer cells or lessen the chance of recurrence. J. Can we establish the existence of a disabling impairment prior to the date of the evidence that shows the cancer satisfies the criteria of a listing? Yes. We will consider factors such as: 1. The type of cancer and its location. 2. The extent of involvement when the cancer was first demonstrated. 3. Your symptoms. K. How do we evaluate specific cancers? 1. Lymphoma. a. Many indolent (non-aggressive) lymphomas are controlled by well-tolerated treatment modalities, although the lymphomas may produce intermittent symptoms and signs. We may defer adjudicating these cases for an appropriate period after therapy is initiated to determine whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect, which is usually to stabilize the disease process. (See 13.00E3.) Once your disease stabilizes, we will assess severity based on the extent of involvement of other organ systems and residuals from therapy. b. A change in therapy for indolent lymphomas is usually an indicator that the therapy is not achieving its intended effect. E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules However, your impairment will not meet the requirements of 13.05A2 if your therapy is changed solely because you or your physician chooses to change it and not because of a failure to achieve stability. c. We consider Hodgkin lymphoma that recurs more than 12 months after completing initial antineoplastic therapy to be a new disease rather than a recurrence. 2. Leukemia. a. Acute leukemia. The initial diagnosis of acute leukemia, including the accelerated or blast phase of chronic myelogenous (granulocytic) leukemia, is based on definitive bone marrow examination. Additional diagnostic information is based on chromosomal analysis, cytochemical and surface marker studies on the abnormal cells, or other methods consistent with the prevailing state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. Recurrent disease must be documented by peripheral blood, bone marrow, or cerebrospinal fluid examination, or by testicular biopsy. The initial and follow-up pathology reports should be included. b. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). We need a diagnosis of CML based on documented granulocytosis, including immature forms such as differentiated or undifferentiated myelocytes and myeloblasts, and a chromosomal analysis that demonstrates the Philadelphia chromosome. In the absence of a chromosomal analysis, or if the Philadelphia chromosome is not present, the diagnosis may be made by other methods consistent with the prevailing state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. The requirement for CML in the accelerated or blast phase is met in 13.06B if laboratory findings show the proportion of blast (immature) cells in the peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater. c. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. i. We require the diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) to be documented by evidence of a chronic lymphocytosis of at least 10,000 cells/mm3 for 3 months or longer, or other acceptable diagnostic techniques consistent with the prevailing state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. ii. We evaluate the complications and residual impairment(s) from CLL under the appropriate listings, such as 13.05A2 or the hematological listings (7.00). d. Elevated white cell count. In cases of chronic leukemia (either myelogenous or lymphocytic), an elevated white cell count, in itself, is not a factor in determining the severity of the impairment. 3. Macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease. We require the diagnosis of these diseases to be confirmed by protein electrophoresis or immunoelectrophoresis. We evaluate the resulting impairment(s) under the appropriate listings, such as 13.05A2 or the hematological listings (7.00). 4. Primary breast cancer. a. We evaluate bilateral primary breast cancer (synchronous or metachronous) under 13.10A, which covers local primary disease, and not as a primary disease that has metastasized. b. We evaluate secondary lymphedema that results from antineoplastic therapy for breast VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 cancer under 13.10E if the lymphedema is treated by surgery to salvage or restore the functioning of an upper extremity. Secondary lymphedema is edema that results from obstruction or destruction of normal lymphatic channels. We may not restrict our determination of the onset of disability to the date of the surgery; we may establish an earlier onset date of disability if the evidence in your case record supports such a finding. 5. Carcinoma-in-situ. Carcinoma-in-situ, or preinvasive carcinoma, usually responds to treatment. When we use the term ‘‘carcinoma’’ in these listings, it does not include carcinoma-in-situ. 6. Primary central nervous system (CNS) cancers. We use the criteria in 13.13 to evaluate cancers that originate within the CNS (that is, brain and spinal cord cancers). a. The CNS cancers listed in 13.13A1 are highly malignant and respond poorly to treatment, and therefore we do not require additional criteria to evaluate them. b. We consider a CNS tumor to be malignant if it is classified as Grade II, Grade III, or Grade IV under the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the CNS (WHO Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, 2007). c. We evaluate benign (Grade I) CNS tumors under 11.05. We evaluate metastasized CNS cancers from non-CNS sites under the primary cancers (see 13.00C). We evaluate any complications of CNS cancers, such as resultant neurological or psychological impairments, under the criteria for the affected body system. 7. Primary peritoneal carcinoma. We use the criteria in 13.23E to evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women because this cancer is often indistinguishable from ovarian cancer and is generally treated the same way as ovarian cancer. We use the criteria in 13.15A to evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in men because many of these cases are similar to malignant mesothelioma. 8. Prostate cancer. We exclude ‘‘biochemical recurrence’’ in 13.24A, which is defined as an increase in the serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level following the completion of antineoplastic therapy. We need corroborating evidence to document recurrence, such as radiological studies or findings on physical examination. 9. Melanoma. We evaluate malignant melanoma that affects the skin (cutaneous melanoma), eye (ocular melanoma), or mucosal membranes (mucosal melanoma) under 13.29. We evaluate melanoma that is not malignant that affects the skin (benign melanocytic tumor) under the listings in 8.00 or other affected body systems. L. How do we evaluate cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood? Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation is performed for a variety of cancers. We require the transplantation occur before we evaluate it under these listings. We do not need to restrict our determination of the onset of disability to the date of the transplantation (13.05, 13.06, or 13.07) or the date of first treatment under the treatment plan that includes transplantation (13.28). We may be PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 76515 able to establish an earlier onset date of disability due to your transplantation if the evidence in your case record supports such a finding. 1. Acute leukemia (including T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma) or accelerated or blast phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will consider you to be disabled until at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis or relapse, or at least 12 months from the date of transplantation, whichever is later. 2. Lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or chronic phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the date of transplantation. 3. Other cancers. We will evaluate any other cancer treated with bone marrow or stem cell transplantation under 13.28, regardless of whether there is another listing that addresses that impairment. The length of time we will consider you to be disabled depends on whether you undergo allogeneic or autologous transplantation. a. Allogeneic bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. If you undergo allogeneic transplantation (transplantation from an unrelated donor or a related donor other than an identical twin), we will consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the date of transplantation. b. Autologous bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. If you undergo autologous transplantation (transplantation of your own cells or cells from your identical twin (syngeneic transplantation)), we will consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the date of the first treatment under the treatment plan that includes transplantation. The first treatment usually refers to the initial therapy given to prepare you for transplantation. 4. Evaluating disability after the appropriate time period has elapsed. We consider any residual impairment(s), such as complications arising from: a. Graft-versus-host (GVH) disease. b. Immunosuppressant therapy, such as frequent infections. c. Significant deterioration of other organ systems. 13.01 Category of Impairments, Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) 13.02 Soft tissue cancers of the head and neck (except salivary glands—13.08—and thyroid gland—13.09). * * * * * B. Persistent or recurrent disease following initial antineoplastic therapy, except persistence or recurrence in the true vocal cord. OR C. With metastases beyond the regional lymph nodes. OR D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. OR E. Soft tissue cancers originating in the head and neck treated with multimodal antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider under a disability until at least 18 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 76516 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules 13.12 Maxilla, orbit, or temporal fossa. impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 13.03 Skin (except malignant melanoma—13.29). * * * * * * B. Carcinoma invading deep extradermal structures (for example, skeletal muscle, cartilage, or bone). * * * * * 13.05 Lymphoma (including mycosis fungoides, but excluding T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma—13.06). (See 13.00K1 and 13.00K2c.) A. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as described in 1, 2, or 3: * * * * * 2. Indolent lymphoma (including mycosis fungoides and follicular small cleaved cell) requiring initiation of more than one (single mode or multimodal) antineoplastic treatment regimen within a period of 12 consecutive months. Consider under a disability from at least the date of initiation of the treatment regimen that failed within 12 months. 3. Mantle cell lymphoma. OR B. Hodgkin lymphoma with failure to achieve clinically complete remission, or recurrent disease within 12 months of completing initial antineoplastic therapy. * * * * C. Cancer with extension to the orbit, meninges, sinuses, or base of the skull. 13.13 Nervous system. (See 13.00K6.) A. Primary central nervous system (CNS; that is, brain and spinal cord) cancers, as described in 1, 2, or 3: 1. Glioblastoma multiforme, ependymoblastoma, and diffuse intrinsic brain stem gliomas (see 13.00K6a). 2. Any Grade III or Grade IV CNS cancer (see 13.00K6b), including astrocytomas, sarcomas, and medulloblastoma and other primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs). 3. Any primary CNS cancer, as described in a or b: a. Metastatic. b. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. OR B. Primary peripheral nerve or spinal root cancers, as described in 1 or 2: 1. Metastatic. 2. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. 13.14 Lungs. * * * * * B. * * * 1. Accelerated or blast phase (see 13.00K2b). C. Carcinoma of the superior sulcus (including Pancoast tumors) with multimodal antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider under a disability until at least 18 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 13.15 Pleura or mediastinum. * * * * * * * 13.06 Leukemia. (See 13.00K2.) * * * * * * * * * 13.10 Breast (except sarcoma—13.04). (See 13.00K4.) A. Locally advanced cancer (inflammatory carcinoma, cancer of any size with direct extension to the chest wall or skin, or cancer of any size with metastases to the ipsilateral internal mammary nodes). * * * * * C. * * * OR D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. OR E. With secondary lymphedema that is caused by antineoplastic therapy and treated by surgery to salvage or restore the functioning of an upper extremity. (See 13.00K4b.) Consider under a disability until at least 12 months from the date of the surgery that treated the secondary lymphedema. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 13.11 Skeletal system—sarcoma. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 * * * * * B. Recurrent cancer (except local recurrence) after initial antineoplastic therapy. * * * * * 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 * * * * * * * * B. Uterine cervix, as described in 1, 2, or 3: 1. Extending to the pelvic wall, lower portion of the vagina, or adjacent or distant organs. 2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. 3. With metastases to distant (for example, para-aortic or supraclavicular) lymph nodes. * * * * * E. Ovaries, as described in 1 or 2: 1. All cancers except germ-cell cancers, with at least one of the following: a. Extension beyond the pelvis; for example, implants on, or direct extension to, peritoneal, omental, or bowel surfaces. b. Metastases to or beyond the regional lymph nodes. c. Recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. 2. Germ-cell cancers—progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. OR F. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.24 Prostate gland—carcinoma. A. Progressive or recurrent (not including biochemical recurrence) despite initial hormonal intervention. (See 13.00K8.) OR B. * * * OR C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.25 Testicles—cancer with metastatic disease progressive or recurrent following initial chemotherapy. B. * * * OR C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.16 Esophagus or stomach. * * 13.29 Malignant melanoma (including skin, ocular, or mucosal melanomas), as described in either A or B: A. Recurrent (except an additional primary melanoma at a different site, which is not considered to be recurrent disease) following either 1, 2, or 3: 1. Wide excision (skin melanoma). 2. Enucleation of the eye (ocular melanoma). 3. Complete surgical excision (mucosal melanoma). OR B. With metastases as described in 1, 2, or 3: 1. Metastases to one or more clinically apparent nodes; that is, nodes that are detected by imaging studies (excluding lymphoscintigraphy) or by clinical evaluation (palpable). 2. If the nodes are not clinically apparent, with metastases to four or more nodes. 3. Metastases to adjacent skin (satellite lesions) or distant sites. * * * * B. * * * OR C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.17 Small intestine—carcinoma, sarcoma, or carcinoid. * * * * * B. * * * OR C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.18 Large intestine (from ileocecal valve to and including anal canal). * * * * * C. * * * OR D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. 13.19 Liver or gallbladder—cancer of the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts. 13.20 Pancreas. * D. All other cancers originating in bone with multimodal antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider under a disability for 12 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. VerDate Mar<15>2010 * 13.23 Cancers of the female genital tract—carcinoma or sarcoma (including primary peritoneal carcinoma). * * * * B. Islet cell carcinoma that is physiologically active and is either inoperable or unresectable. * * 13.22 * * * * * Urinary bladder—carcinoma. * * * D. * * * OR E. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 * * * * 13.28 Cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. (See 13.00L.) * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Part B * 113.00 Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) * E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM * * 17DEP3 * * wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules 113.00 CANCER (MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES) A. What impairments do these listings cover? We use these listings to evaluate all cancers (malignant neoplastic diseases), except certain cancers associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. If you have HIV infection, we use the criteria in 114.08E to evaluate carcinoma of the cervix, Kaposi sarcoma, lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal and anal margin. B. What do we consider when we evaluate cancer under these listings? We will consider factors including: 1. Origin of the cancer. 2. Extent of involvement. 3. Duration, frequency, and response to antineoplastic therapy. 4. Effects of any post-therapeutic residuals. C. How do we apply these listings? We apply the criteria in a specific listing to a cancer originating from that specific site. D. What evidence do we need? 1. We need medical evidence that specifies the type, extent, and site of the primary, recurrent, or metastatic lesion. In the rare situation in which the primary site cannot be identified, we will use evidence documenting the site(s) of metastasis to evaluate the impairment under 13.27 in part A. 2. For operative procedures, including a biopsy or a needle aspiration, we generally need a copy of both the: a. Operative note, and b. Pathology report. 3. When we cannot get these documents, we will accept the summary of hospitalization(s) or other medical reports. This evidence should include details of the findings at surgery and, when appropriate, the pathological findings. 4. In some situations, we may also need evidence about recurrence, persistence, or progression of the cancer, the response to therapy, and any significant residuals. (See 113.00G.) E. When do we need longitudinal evidence? 1. Cancer with distant metastases. Most cancer of childhood consists of a local lesion with metastases to regional lymph nodes and, less often, distant metastases. We generally do not need longitudinal evidence for cancer that has metastasized beyond the regional lymph nodes because this cancer usually meets the requirements of a listing. Exceptions are for cancer with distant metastases that is expected to respond to antineoplastic therapy. For these exceptions, we usually need a longitudinal record of 3 months after therapy starts to determine whether the therapy achieved its intended effect, and whether this effect is likely to persist. 2. Other cancers. When there are no distant metastases, many of the listings require that we consider your response to initial antineoplastic therapy; that is, the initial planned treatment regimen. This therapy may consist of a single modality or a combination of modalities; that is, multimodal therapy (see 113.00I3). 3. Types of treatment. a. Whenever the initial planned therapy is a single modality, enough time must pass to VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 allow a determination about whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect. If the treatment fails, the failure often happens within 6 months after treatment starts, and there will often be a change in the treatment regimen. b. Whenever the initial planned therapy is multimodal, we usually cannot make a determination about the effectiveness of the therapy until we can determine the effects of all the planned modalities. In some cases, we may need to defer adjudication until we can assess the effectiveness of therapy. However, we do not need to defer adjudication to determine whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect if we can make a fully favorable determination or decision based on the length and effects of therapy, or the residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 113.00G). F. How do we evaluate impairments that do not meet one of the cancer listings? 1. These listings are only examples of cancers that we consider severe enough to result in marked and severe functional limitations. If your severe impairment(s) does not meet the criteria of any of these listings, we must also consider whether you have an impairment(s) that meets the criteria of a listing in another body system. 2. If you have a severe medically determinable impairment(s) that does not meet a listing, we will determine whether your impairment(s) medically equals a listing. (See §§ 404.1526 and 416.926 of this chapter.) If it does not, we will also consider whether you have an impairment(s) that functionally equals the listings. (See § 416.926a of this chapter.) We use the rules in § 416.994a of this chapter when we decide whether you continue to be disabled. G. How do we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy? 1. How we consider the effects of therapy under the listings. In many cases, cancers meet listing criteria only if the therapy is not effective and the cancer persists, progresses, or recurs. However, as explained in the following paragraphs, we will not delay adjudication if we can make a fully favorable determination or decision based on the evidence in the case record. 2. Effects can vary widely. a. We consider each case on an individual basis because the therapy and its toxicity may vary widely. We will request a specific description of the therapy, including these items: i. Drugs given. ii. Dosage. iii. Frequency of drug administration. iv. Plans for continued drug administration. v. Extent of surgery. vi. Schedule and fields of radiation therapy. b. We will also request a description of the complications or adverse effects of therapy, such as the following: i. Continuing gastrointestinal symptoms. ii. Persistent weakness. iii. Neurological complications. iv. Cardiovascular complications. v. Reactive mental disorders. 3. Effects of therapy may change. The severity of the adverse effects of PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 76517 antineoplastic therapy may change during treatment; therefore, enough time must pass to allow us to evaluate the therapy’s effect. The residual effects of treatment are temporary in most instances; however, on occasion, the effects may be disabling for a consecutive period of at least 12 months. 4. When the initial antineoplastic therapy is effective. We evaluate any post-therapeutic residual impairment(s) not included in these listings under the criteria for the affected body system. We must consider any complications of therapy. When the residual impairment(s) does not meet a listing, we must consider whether it medically equals a listing, or, as appropriate, functionally equals the listings. H. How long do we consider your impairment to be disabling? 1. In some listings, we specify that we will consider your impairment to be disabling until a particular point in time (for example, at least 12 months from the date of diagnosis). We may consider your impairment to be disabling beyond this point when the medical and other evidence justifies it. 2. When a listing does not contain such a specification, we will consider an impairment(s) that meets or medically equals a listing in this body system to be disabling until at least 3 years after onset of complete remission. When the impairment(s) has been in complete remission for at least 3 years, that is, the original tumor or a recurrence (or relapse) and any metastases have not been evident for at least 3 years, the impairment(s) will no longer meet or medically equal the criteria of a listing in this body system. 3. Following the appropriate period, we will consider any residuals, including residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 113.00G), in determining whether you are disabled. If you have a recurrence or relapse of your cancer, your impairment may meet or medically equal one of the listings in this body system again. I. What do we mean by the following terms? 1. Antineoplastic therapy means surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormones, immunotherapy, or bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. When we refer to surgery as an antineoplastic treatment, we mean surgical excision for treatment, not for diagnostic purposes. 2. Metastases means the spread of cancer cells by blood, lymph, or other body fluid. This term does not include the spread of cancer cells by direct extension of the cancer to other tissues or organs. 3. Multimodal therapy means antineoplastic therapy that is given as a combination of at least two types of treatment given in close proximity as a unified whole and usually planned before any treatment has begun. There are three types of treatment modalities: surgery, radiation, and systemic drug therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy or biological modifier therapy). Examples of multimodal therapy include: a. Surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation. b. Chemotherapy followed by surgery. c. Chemotherapy and concurrent radiation. E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 76518 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules 4. Persistent means the planned initial antineoplastic therapy failed to achieve a complete remission of your cancer; that is, your cancer is evident, even if smaller, after the therapy has ended. 5. Progressive means the cancer becomes more extensive after treatment; that is, there is evidence that your cancer is growing after you have completed at least half of your planned initial antineoplastic therapy. 6. Recurrent or relapse means a cancer that was in complete remission or entirely removed by surgery has returned. J. Can we establish the existence of a disabling impairment prior to the date of the evidence that shows the cancer satisfies the criteria of a listing? Yes. We will consider factors such as: 1. The type of cancer and its location. 2. The extent of involvement when the cancer was first demonstrated. 3. Your symptoms. K. How do we evaluate specific cancers? 1. Lymphoma. a. We provide criteria for evaluating lymphomas that are disseminated or have not responded to antineoplastic therapy in 113.05. b. Lymphoblastic lymphoma is treated with leukemia-based protocols, so we evaluate this type of cancer under 113.06. 2. Leukemia. a. Acute leukemia. The initial diagnosis of acute leukemia, including the accelerated or blast phase of chronic myelogenous (granulocytic) leukemia, is based on definitive bone marrow examination. Additional diagnostic information is based on chromosomal analysis, cytochemical and surface marker studies on the abnormal cells, or other methods consistent with the prevailing state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. Recurrent disease must be documented by peripheral blood, bone marrow, or cerebrospinal fluid examination, or by testicular biopsy. The initial and follow-up pathology reports should be included. b. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). We need a diagnosis of CML based on documented granulocytosis, including immature forms such as differentiated or undifferentiated myelocytes and myeloblasts, and a chromosomal analysis that demonstrates the Philadelphia chromosome. In the absence of a chromosomal analysis, or if the Philadelphia chromosome is not present, the diagnosis may be made by other methods consistent with the prevailing state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. The requirement for CML in the accelerated or blast phase is met in 113.06B if laboratory findings show the proportion of blast (immature) cells in the peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater. c. Juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia (JCML). JCML is a rare, Philadelphiachromosome-negative childhood leukemia that is aggressive and clinically similar to acute myelogenous leukemia. We evaluate JCML under 113.06A. d. Elevated white cell count. In cases of chronic leukemia, an elevated white cell count, in itself, is not a factor in determining the severity of the impairment. 3. Malignant solid tumors. The tumors we consider under 113.03 include the VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 histiocytosis syndromes except for solitary eosinophilic granuloma. We do not evaluate thyroid cancer (see 113.09), retinoblastomas (see 113.12), primary central nervous system (CNS) cancers (see 113.13), or neuroblastomas (see 113.21) under this listing. 4. Primary central nervous system (CNS) cancers. We use the criteria in 113.13 to evaluate cancers that originate within the CNS (that is, brain and spinal cord cancers). a. The CNS cancers listed in 113.13A are highly malignant and respond poorly to treatment, and therefore we do not require additional criteria to evaluate them. b. We consider a CNS tumor to be malignant if it is classified as Grade II, Grade III, or Grade IV under the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the CNS (WHO Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, 2007). c. We evaluate benign (Grade I) CNS tumors under 111.05. We evaluate metastasized CNS cancers from non-CNS sites under the primary cancers (see 113.00C). We evaluate any complications of CNS cancers, such as resultant neurological or psychological impairments, under the criteria for the affected body system. 5. Retinoblastoma. The treatment for bilateral retinoblastoma usually results in a visual impairment. We will evaluate any resulting visual impairment under 102.02. 6. Melanoma. We evaluate malignant melanoma that affects the skin (cutaneous melanoma), eye (ocular melanoma), or mucosal membranes (mucosal melanoma) under 113.29. We evaluate melanoma that is not malignant that affects the skin (benign melanocytic tumor) under the listings in 108.00 or other affected body systems. L. How do we evaluate cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood? Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation is performed for a variety of cancers. We require the transplantation occur before we evaluate it under these listings. We do not need to restrict our determination of the onset of disability to the date of transplantation (113.05 or 113.06). We may be able to establish an earlier onset date of disability due to your transplantation if the evidence in your case record supports such a finding. 1. Acute leukemia (including all types of lymphoblastic lymphomas lymphoblastic lymphoma and JCML) or accelerated or blast phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will consider you to be disabled until at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis or relapse, or at least 12 months from the date of transplantation, whichever is later. 2. Lymphoma or chronic phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the date of transplantation. 3. Evaluating disability after the appropriate time period has elapsed. We consider any residual impairment(s), such as complications arising from: a. Graft-versus-host (GVH) disease. b. Immunosuppressant therapy, such as frequent infections. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 c. Significant deterioration of other organ systems. 113.01 Category of Impairments, Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) 113.03 Malignant solid tumors. Consider under a disability: A. For 24 months from the date of initial diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. OR B. For 24 months from the date of recurrence of active disease. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 113.05 Lymphoma (excluding all types of lymphoblastic lymphomas—113.06). (See 113.00K1.) A. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (including Burkitt and anaplastic large cell), with either 1 or 2: 1. Bone marrow, brain, spinal cord, liver, or lung involvement at initial diagnosis. Consider under a disability for 24 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate under 113.05A2, or any residual impairments(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. OR B. Hodgkin lymphoma, with either 1 or 2: 1. Bone marrow, brain, spinal cord, liver, or lung involvement at initial diagnosis. Consider under a disability for 24 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate under 113.05B2, or any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. 2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. OR C. * * * OR D. Mantle cell lymphoma. 113.06 Leukemia. (See 113.00K2.) A. Acute leukemia (including all types of lymphoblastic lymphomas and juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia (JCML)). OR B. * * * 1. Accelerated or blast phase (see 113.00K2b). * * * * * 113.13 Nervous system. (See 113.00K4.) Primary central nervous system (CNS; that is, brain and spinal cord) cancers, as described in A, B, or C: A. Glioblastoma multiforme, ependymoblastoma, and diffuse intrinsic brain stem gliomas (see 113.00K4a). B. Any Grade III or Grade IV CNS cancer (see 113.00K4b), including astrocytomas, sarcomas, and medulloblastoma and other primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs). C. Any primary CNS cancer, as described in 1 or 2: 1. Metastatic. 2. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. * * * * * 113.29 Malignant melanoma (including skin, ocular, or mucosal melanomas), as described in either A or B: A. Recurrent (except an additional primary melanoma at a different site, which is not E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 / Proposed Rules wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS3 considered to be recurrent disease) following either 1, 2, or 3: 1. Wide excision (skin melanoma). 2. Enucleation of the eye (ocular melanoma). 3. Complete surgical excision (mucosal melanoma). OR VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:29 Dec 16, 2013 Jkt 232001 B. With metastases as described in 1, 2, or 76519 3: 1. Metastases to one or more clinically apparent nodes; that is, nodes that are detected by imaging studies (excluding lymphoscintigraphy) or by clinical evaluation (palpable). 2. If the nodes are not clinically apparent, with metastases to four or more nodes. 3. Metastases to adjacent skin (satellite lesions) or distant sites. * PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 9990 * * * * [FR Doc. 2013–30088 Filed 12–16–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4191–02–P E:\FR\FM\17DEP3.SGM 17DEP3

Agencies

Social Security Administration

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 242 (Tuesday, December 17, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 76507-76519]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-30088]

[[Page 76507]]

Vol. 78

Tuesday,

No. 242

December 17, 2013

Part V

Social Security Administration

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20 CFR Part 404

Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic
Diseases); Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 78 , No. 242 / Tuesday, December 17, 2013 /
Proposed Rules

[[Page 76508]]

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SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

20 CFR Part 404

[Docket No. SSA-2011-0098]
RIN 0960-AH43

Revised Medical Criteria for Evaluating Cancer (Malignant
Neoplastic Diseases)

AGENCY: Social Security Administration.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: We propose to revise the criteria in parts A and B of the
Listing of Impairments (listings) that we use to evaluate cases
involving cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases) in adults and children
under titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act (Act). These
proposed revisions reflect our adjudicative experience, advances in
medical knowledge, and recommendations from medical experts we
consulted, as well as public comments we received on methods of
evaluating cancer.

DATES: To ensure that your comments are considered, we must receive
them no later than February 18, 2014.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by one of three methods--Internet,
fax, or mail. Do not submit the same comments multiple times or by more
than one method. Regardless of which method you choose, please state
that your comments refer to Docket No. SSA-2011-0098 so that we may
associate your comments with the correct regulation.
Caution: You should be careful to include in your comments only
information that you wish to make publicly available. We strongly urge
you not to include in your comments any personal information, such as
your Social Security number or medical information.
1. Internet: We recommend that you submit your comments via the
Internet. Please visit the Federal eRulemaking portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Use the Search function to find docket number SSA-
2011-0098. The system will issue a tracking number to confirm your
submission. You will not be able to view your comment immediately
because we must post each comment manually. It may take up to a week
for your comment to be viewable.
2. Fax: Fax comments to (410) 966-2830.
3. Mail: Address your comments to the Office of Regulations and
Reports Clearance, Social Security Administration, 107 Altmeyer
Building, 6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21235-6401.
Comments are available for public viewing on the Federal
eRulemaking portal at https://www.regulations.gov, or in person, during
regular business hours, by arranging with the contact person identified
below.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cheryl A. Williams, Office of Medical
Listings Improvement, Social Security Administration, 6401 Security
Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21235-6401, (410) 965-1020. For
information on eligibility or filing for benefits, call our national
toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778, or visit our
Internet site, Social Security Online, at https://www.socialsecurity.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

What revisions are we proposing?

We propose to:
Change the name of this body system;
Add several new listings and revise some current ones;
Revise the introductory text of these listings to provide
more information about how we evaluate cancer and to reflect the new
listings; and
Make editorial changes throughout the rules to make the
rules internally consistent.

Why are we proposing to make these changes?

We last issued final rules revising these listings on October 6,
2009, effective November 5, 2009.\1\ We stated in the preamble of the
final rules that we would continue to monitor these listings and revise
them, if warranted, before their eight-year effective period ends in
2017. These proposed revisions reflect our adjudicative experience,
advances in medical knowledge, and recommendations from medical experts
we consulted. They also reflect public comments we received on a notice
of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that we published in 2008 before issuing
the final rules in 2009.\2\ We did not address these public comments at
the time because they were outside the scope of the 2008 NPRM.
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\1\ 74 FR 51229.
\2\ 73 FR 22871 (April 28, 2008). Public comments are available
at https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;rpp=10;po=0;D=SSA-2007-
0066.
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Why are we proposing to change the name of this body system?

We propose to change the name of this body system from ``Malignant
Neoplastic Diseases'' to ``Cancer'' to improve clarity and ease of use
of the listings. While both terms represent the same condition,
``cancer'' is a more commonly used term, and more recognized by the lay
public and by health care professionals. The phrase ``malignant
neoplastic disease'' is a term used almost exclusively, although
infrequently, by health care professionals. We would also replace the
term ``malignant neoplastic diseases'' with the term ``cancer'' in the
introductory text and listings.

What changes are we proposing to make in the introductory text of the
listings for evaluating cancer in adults?

The following is a detailed explanation of the significant changes
we would make to the introductory text:

Proposed Section 13.00E--When do we need longitudinal evidence?

We propose to restructure current section 13.00E3 for clarity. We
would also add proposed 13.00E3c to clarify how we evaluate cancer
treated with multimodal antineoplastic therapy under certain listings.
We would explain that we need evidence under current listings 13.02E,
13.11D, and 13.14C to establish that the treating source has initiated
multimodal therapy. We also explain that we may defer adjudication if
the treating source plans multimodal therapy but has not yet initiated
it.

Proposed Section 13.00I--What do we mean by the following terms?

We propose several changes in section 13.00I:
We would add the term ``antineoplastic therapy'' to the
list of defined terms. We would move the definition of ``antineoplastic
therapy'' from current section 13.00B3 to proposed section 13.00I1.
This change will make it easier for our adjudicators to find the
definition for ``antineoplastic therapy.'' We would renumber the
definitions in proposed section 13.00I that follow the definition for
``antineoplastic therapy.''
We would revise and expand the definition of the term
``persistent'' in current section 13.00I4 (proposed section 13.00I5) to
reflect how the meaning of this term relates to the outcome of initial
antineoplastic therapy. Similarly, we would revise and expand the
definition of the term ``progressive'' in current section 13.00I5
(proposed section 13.00I6) to reflect how its meaning relates to the
outcome of therapy.
We would revise and expand the definition of the term
``unresectable'' in current section 13.00I7 (proposed section 13.00I8)
to explain situations in which positive surgical margins would not
indicate unresectable cancer. We

[[Page 76509]]

propose this change because the initial surgery may be followed by
additional surgery that eliminates the positive surgical margins.

Proposed Section 13.00K--How do we evaluate specific cancers?

We propose several changes to current section 13.00K:
We would revise current section 13.00K2b to explain that
we consider chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) to be in the
``accelerated'' or ``blast'' phase when the proportion of blast
(immature) cells in the peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent
or greater. We propose this change in response to questions we have
received from our adjudicators.
We would remove the word ``ordinarily'' from current
section 13.00K2d to clarify that we do not consider an increase in a
person's white blood cell count alone to be sufficient evidence to
determine the severity of chronic leukemia. The word ``ordinarily'' may
be misinterpreted to mean there are some situations in which an
increase in the white blood cell count by itself may determine
severity, and this interpretation would be contrary to our intent.
We would revise and expand current section 13.00K3 to
explain that we can evaluate macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease
under current listing 13.05A2. We would make this change to recognize
that current medical practice may treat macroglobulinemia as an
indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We also explain that we may evaluate
macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease under the appropriate listings
in the hematological body system (7.00). We would make a similar change
in current section 13.00K2cii to explain that we may evaluate the
complications and residual impairments from chronic lymphocytic
leukemia under the appropriate listings in the hematological body
system.
We would make two changes to revise and expand current
section 13.00K4. First, we would use the broader heading, ``Primary
breast cancer,'' rather than the current heading, ``Bilateral primary
breast cancer.'' Second, we would add guidance to explain how we
evaluate secondary lymphedema resulting from breast cancer treatment
under proposed listing 13.10E. We would continue to include guidance in
the revised section to explain how we evaluate bilateral primary breast
cancer under current listing 13.10A.
We would reorganize and revise section 13.00K6 to explain
why we evaluate specific central nervous system (CNS) cancers by
diagnosis alone, unlike other CNS cancers that we evaluate based on a
World Health Organization (WHO) grade. We also explain that we use the
criteria in listing 13.13 to evaluate ``primary central nervous system
cancers,'' which means cancers that originate within the central
nervous system, that is, brain and spinal cord cancers.
We would add section 13.00K7 to explain that we can
evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women under current listing
13.23E for ovarian cancer. This change responds to a public comment on
the 2008 NPRM that suggested we provide guidance for evaluating this
type of cancer. We can evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women
under listing 13.23E because the disease course, treatment, and outcome
are more similar to ovarian cancer than other cancers. We also explain
that we can evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in men under current
listing 13.15A for malignant mesothelioma because many of these cases
in men are similar to malignant mesothelioma.
We would add section 13.00K8 to explain that current
listing 13.24A for recurrent prostate cancer does not include
``biochemical recurrence,'' as measured with the cancer biomarker
prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Although the PSA biomarker may track
the progression of the person's prostate cancer, we do not consider PSA
useful in determining disability because its values do not necessarily
correlate with a person's degree of functional impairment.
We would add section 13.00K9 to explain that we evaluate
any malignant melanoma under proposed new listing 13.29. As we note in
our detailed explanation of proposed 13.29 below, malignant melanoma
may occur in places besides the skin, such as in the eyes and mucosal
membranes. The proposed listing provides comprehensive criteria to
reflect the full range of malignant melanomas. We would also explain
that we evaluate benign melanoma under the listings in 8.00 or other
affected body systems.

Proposed Section 13.00L--How do we evaluate cancer treatment by bone
marrow or stem cell transplantation, including transplantation using
stem cells from umbilical cord blood?

We would revise current section 13.00L to further explain how we
evaluate cancers treated with bone marrow or stem cell transplantation,
including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood.
We explain that the transplantation must occur before we will evaluate
it under the listings. We also explain that we may establish an onset
date of disability that is earlier than the date of the
transplantation, or the date of first treatment in a treatment regimen
that includes transplantation, if an earlier onset date is consistent
with the evidence in the case record.

How do we propose to revise the criteria in the listings for evaluating
cancer in adults?

We propose to add a criterion in several of the listings for
evaluating small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma. We currently only have a
listing for small-cell carcinoma in the lungs (listing 13.14). Small-
cell carcinoma may originate in places in the body other than the
lungs. We would add a criterion for small-cell carcinoma to the
listings for these other places.\3\ We propose this change in light of
our adjudicative experience and the current medical literature
establishing that in most instances small-cell carcinomas are of
listing-level severity regardless of where they occur in the body.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\3\ The criterion for evaluating small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma
would be added under these proposed listings: 13.02D for soft tissue
cancers of the head and neck; 13.10D for cancer of the breast;
13.15C for cancer of the pleura and mediastinum; 13.16C for cancer
of the esophagus or stomach; 13.17C for cancer of the small
intestine; 13.18D for cancer of the large intestine; 13.22E for
cancer of the urinary bladder; 13.23F for cancers of the female
genital tract; and 13.24C for cancers of the prostate gland.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Proposed Listing 13.02--Soft Tissue Cancers of the Head and Neck
(Except Salivary Glands--13.08--and Thyroid Gland--13.09)

We propose to revise current listing 13.02 for soft tissue cancer
of the head and neck by removing the requirement for persistent disease
following initial multimodal antineoplastic therapy from current
listing 13.02B. Based on our adjudicative experience and information
from medical experts, we believe persistent cancer following a
treatment plan using only a single mode of therapy (for example, solely
radiation) is also an indication of head and neck cancer of listing-
level severity. We would evaluate cancer that is either persistent or
recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy under proposed
listing 13.02B. We would delete current listing 13.02C because we would
also evaluate recurrent cancer under proposed listing 13.02B. We would
also redesignate current listing 13.02D as listing 13.02C.
In proposed 13.02B, we also propose to exclude cancer in the true
vocal cords that is persistent or recurrent following initial
antineoplastic therapy.

[[Page 76510]]

Physicians often treat cancer at this location with radiation therapy
to preserve the larynx, but if the cancer persists or recurs, they are
able to remove the cancer with surgery.

Proposed Listing 13.03--Skin (Except Malignant Melanoma--13.29)

We would revise current listing 13.03 by adding a criterion,
proposed listing 13.03B, to evaluate skin cancer that invades deep
extradermal structures, such as skeletal muscle, cartilage, or bone.
Skin cancer with these findings is often unresectable. We propose to
add this criterion to be consistent with the criteria for other cancers
that are unresectable and to recognize the poor prognosis for this
condition. We would evaluate malignant melanoma of the skin under
proposed listing 13.29, which we explain in more detail below.

Proposed Listing 13.05--Lymphoma (Including Mycosis Fungoides, But
Excluding T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma--13.06)

We would add proposed listing 13.05A3 for evaluating mantle cell
lymphoma (MCL), a high-grade, non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Current medical
practice is unable to achieve a long-lasting remission in MCL or
significantly increase a person's life expectancy. Similar to other
cancers (for example, liver or gallbladder cancer) with a very poor
prognosis, we would consider a person disabled on a confirmed diagnosis
of MCL.

Proposed Listing 13.10--Breast (Except Sarcoma--13.04)

Secondary lymphedema that results from breast cancer treatment (for
example, radiation treatment) may advance to the point that the person
needs surgery to treat the lymphedema and restore the functional use of
an upper extremity. We propose to add listing 13.10E to find the person
disabled for at least 12 months from the date of this surgery that
treated the secondary lymphedema. After that, we would evaluate any
residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system.
We propose this new criterion to recognize the debilitating effects of
advanced secondary lymphedema, as well as the time needed to recover
from the surgery.

Proposed Listing 13.12--Maxilla, Orbit, or Temporal Fossa

We propose to make a minor editorial change to current listing
13.12C by moving the term ``base of the skull'' to the end of the
sentence. We do not intend for the word ``base'' in this term to apply
to the ``orbit,'' ``meninges,'' or ``sinuses.'' We believe the proposed
editorial change will make the current sentence structure clearer.

Proposed Listing 13.13--Nervous System

We propose to reorganize and revise current 13.13A. We would list
separately in proposed listings 13.13A1 and 13.13A2 highly malignant
primary CNS cancers that we consider to be of listing-level severity by
diagnosis alone. These CNS cancers include Grade III and Grade IV
astrocytomas, and medulloblastoma and other primitive neuroectodermal
tumors (PNETs). We would no longer require highly malignant PNETs to
have documented metastases. Our adjudicative experience and the current
medical literature establish that Grade III and Grade IV PNETs do not
respond well to treatment and in most instances have a poor prognosis.
We would evaluate all other primary CNS cancers, including low-grade
PNETs, under proposed 13.13A3 or 13.13B.

Proposed Listing 13.20--Pancreas

We propose to make a minor editorial change to current listing
13.20B for islet cell cancer of the pancreas in response to questions
from our adjudicators. We would reorganize the listing to clarify that
the requirement of ``physiologically active'' cancer applies to tumors
that are either inoperable or unresectable.

Proposed Listing 13.23--Cancers of the Female Genital Tract--Carcinoma
or Sarcoma (Including Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma)

We propose to add listing 13.23B3 for cervical cancer that has
spread to distant (for example, para-aortic or supraclavicular) lymph
nodes. Current medical literature establishes that cervical cancer with
involvement of distant lymph nodes is associated with a poor prognosis
and short-term survival, as well as a high recurrence rate.
We also propose to make a minor editorial change in current listing
13.23E1a for ovarian cancer to clarify that the spread of the cancer
beyond the pelvis includes direct extension of the tumor. We currently
find claimants who have direct tumor extension to the peritoneal,
omental, or bowel surfaces to be disabled based on medical equivalence
to the current listing.

Proposed Listing 13.29--Malignant Melanoma (Including Skin, Ocular, or
Mucosal Melanomas)

We propose to evaluate malignant melanoma separately from other
cancers that involve the skin. We would move the criteria for
evaluating malignant melanoma in skin from current listing 13.03B to
proposed new listing 13.29. We would also evaluate malignant melanoma
in the eye (ocular melanoma) and malignant melanoma in mucous membranes
(mucosal melanoma) under the proposed listing. This change recognizes
that malignant melanoma that originates in the eye or mucous membrane
constitutes an impairment of listing-level severity. We also propose an
identical listing for evaluating malignant melanoma in children
(proposed listing 113.29). We currently find all such children disabled
based on medical equivalence to listing 13.03B.

Other Proposed Changes

We would make nonsubstantive editorial revisions throughout these
proposed rules to clarify the introductory text and listings. For
example, we propose to change the term ``tumor'' to ``cancer'' in the
sections of the introductory text where it is obvious that the rules
apply to cancerous tumors. These editorial revisions would also include
updating the medical terminology in the listings. For example, we would
replace the term ``Hodgkin's disease'' with the term ``Hodgkin
lymphoma'' to reflect how the medical community currently refers to
this cancer.

What specific changes are we proposing to make in the introductory text
of the listings for evaluating cancer in children?

We propose to make the following changes to the introductory text
of the childhood listings that correspond with the changes we are
proposing for the introductory text of the adult listings:
Move the definition for ``antineoplastic therapy'' from
current section 113.00B3 to proposed section 113.00I1.
Revise the definition of ``persistence'' in proposed
section 113.00I4 and revise the definition of ``progressive'' in
proposed section 113.00I5.
Revise current section 113.00K2b to explain that CML is in
the accelerated or blast phase if the proportion of blast cells in the
peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater.
Remove the word ``ordinarily'' in current section
113.00K2d.
Revise current section 113.00K3 to provide more
information about which solid tumor cancers we evaluate under listing
113.03 and which we evaluate under other listings in this body system.
Revise current section 113.00K4 to explain that we
evaluate primary CNS cancers under listing 113.13.We would

[[Page 76511]]

also list primary CNS cancers that are highly malignant.
Add guidance in current section 113.00L for evaluating
cancers treated with bone marrow or stem cell transplantation,
including transplantation using stem cells from umbilical cord blood.
Make minor editorial changes to make the child
introductory text consistent with the adult introductory text.

How do we propose to revise the criteria in the listings for evaluating
cancer in children?

We would revise the headings of current listings 113.05 and 113.06
to indicate that we evaluate all types of lymphoblastic lymphomas (not
just the T-cell lymphomas) under 113.06. In making this change in the
headings of the current listings, we would remove the specific
reference to ``T-cell lymphomas'' in 113.05 and 113.06. We would also
revise current listing 113.05 for evaluating non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)
and Hodgkin lymphoma to recognize that these cancers in children
require treatment regimens that are very toxic and prolonged when they
have spread to the bone marrow or to visceral organs, such as the
brain, liver, or lung. With this level of cancer involvement, we would
consider a child with NHL or Hodgkin lymphoma to be under a disability
for 24 months from the date of diagnosis without regard to the
effectiveness of treatment. After that, we would evaluate any residual
impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system. We are
not proposing similar revisions to current listings 13.05 and 13.06 for
lymphomas and leukemias in adults. Pediatric lymphomas and leukemias
behave differently, as they are more aggressive and more difficult to
treat than most adult lymphomas and leukemias.
We would also add proposed listing 113.05D that is the same as the
proposed adult listing for evaluating mantle cell lymphoma.
We would add proposed listing 113.13C to evaluate cancers of the
CNS in children that are metastatic. We would also use proposed 113.13C
to evaluate cancers of the CNS in children that are progressive or
recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy. We currently find
disabled all children with the CNS cancer described in the proposed
listing based on medical equivalence to current listing 13.13A2.

What is our authority to make rules and set procedures for determining
whether a person is disabled under the statutory definition?

Under the Act, we have full power and authority to make rules and
regulations and to establish necessary and appropriate procedures to
carry out such provisions.\4\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\4\ Sections 205(a), 702(a)(5), and 1631(d)(1) of the Act.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

How long would these proposed rules be effective?

If we publish these proposed rules as final rules, they would
remain in effect for 5 years after the date they become effective,
unless we extend them, or revise and issue them again.

Clarity of These Proposed Rules

Executive Order 12866, as supplemented by Executive Order 13563,
requires each agency to write all rules in plain language. In addition
to your substantive comments on these proposed rules, we invite your
comments on how to make them easier to understand.
For example:
Would more, but shorter sections be better?
Are the requirements in the rules clearly stated?
Have we organized the material to suit your needs?
Could we improve clarity by adding tables, lists, or
diagrams?
What else could we do to make the rules easier to
understand?
Do the rules contain technical language or jargon that is
not clear?
Would a different format make the rules easier to
understand, such as grouping and order of sections, use of headings,
paragraphing?

When will we start to use these rules?

We will not use these rules until we evaluate public comments and
publish final rules in the Federal Register. All final rules we issue
include an effective date. We will continue to use our current rules
until that date. If we publish final rules, we will include a summary
of the relevant comments we received, along with responses, and an
explanation of how we will apply the new rules.

Regulatory Procedures

Executive Order 12866, as Supplemented by Executive Order 13563

We consulted with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and
determined that these proposed rules meet the criteria for a
significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, as
supplemented by Executive Order 13563. Therefore, OMB reviewed them.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

We certify that these proposed rules would not have a significant
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities because they
affect individuals only. Therefore, the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as
amended, does not require us to prepare a regulatory flexibility
analysis.

Paperwork Reduction Act

These proposed rules do not create any new, or affect any existing,
collections and do not require OMB approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act.

References

We consulted the following references when we developed these
proposed rules:

Brandes, A.B., et al., Adult neuroectodermal tumors of posterior
fossa (medulloblastoma) and of supratentorial sites (stPNET),
Critical Reviews in Oncology Hematology, Aug;71(2), 165-179 (2009).
doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.
Chang, D.W., Lymphaticovenular bypass for lymphedema management in
breast cancer patients: A prospective study, Plastic and
Reconstructive Surgery, Sep;126(3), 752-758 (2010). doi: 10.1055/s-
0032-1323762.
Chen, C.I., Treatment for Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, Annals of
Oncology, Apr;15(4), 550-558 (2004) (available at: https://annonc.oxfordjournals.org/content/15/4/550.full). doi: 10.1093/
annonc/mdh128.
Chen, J., et al., Incidence, mortality, and prognostic factors of
small-cell carcinoma of the cervix, Obstetrics & Gynecology,
Jun;111(6), 1394-1402 (2008). Doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e31817370b.
Choueiri, T.K., et al., Impact of postoperative prostate-specific
antigen disease recurrence and the use of salvage therapy on the
risk of death, Cancer, Apr;116(8), 1887-1892 (2010) (available at:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cncr.25013/pdf). doi:
10.1002/cncr.25013.
Chung, B.I., et al., Comparison of prostate cancer tumor volume and
percent cancer in prediction of biochemical recurrence and cancer
specific survival, Urologic Oncology, May-Jun;29(3), 314-318 (2011),
electronic publication ahead of print available at: https://www.urologiconcology.org/article/S1078-1439(09)00199-9/abstract.
doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2009.06.017.
Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study Group, The COMS randomized trial
of iodine 125 brachytherapy for choroidal melanoma: V. Twelve-year
mortality

[[Page 76512]]

rates and prognostic factors: COMS Report No. 28, Archives of
Ophthalmology, Dec;124(12), 1684-1693 (2006).
de Alacon, P.A., Pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma treatment and
management: Management, Medscape, (2011)(available at https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/987101-treatment).
Erickson, V.S., et al., Arm edema in breast cancer patients, Journal
of the National Cancer Institute, Jan;93(2), 96-111 (2001)
(available at: https://jnci.oxfordjournals.org/content/93/2/96.full.pdf+html).
Gartner, R., et al., Self-reported arm-lymphedema and functional
impairment after breast cancer treatment--A nationwide study of
prevalence and associated factors, The Breast, Dec;19(6), 506-515
(2010). doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2010.05.015.
Goy, A., et al., Mantle cell lymphoma: The promise of new treatment
options, Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology, Sep;80(1), 69-86
(2011), electronic publication ahead of print, available at: https://www.croh-online.com/article/PIIS1040842810002167/abstract?rss=yes.
doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2010.09.003.
Hicks, M.J., et al., Oral mucosal melanoma: Epidemiology and
pathobiology, Oral Oncology, Mar;36(2), 152-169 (2000).
Jafee, E.S., et al., eds, World Health Organization Classification
of Tumours: Pathology and Genetics of Tumours of Haematopoietic and
Lymphoid Tissues, Lyon: IARC Press, (2001).
Johnson, J.M., Pediatric Non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment and
management, Medscape, (2011) (available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/987540-treatment#aw2aab6b6b3).
Johnson, J.M., Pediatric Non-Hodgkin lymphoma workup: Staging,
Medscape, (2011) (available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/987540-workup).
Karkhaneh, R., et al., Long-term surgical outcome of posterior
choroidal melanoma treated by endoresection, Retina, Sep;27(7), 908-
914 (2007).
Kenney, B., et al., Primary malignant melanoma of the transverse
colon: Report of a case and review of literature, International
Journal of Surgical Pathology, Oct;15(4), 401-407 (2007).
Kidd, E.A., et al., Lymph node staging by positron emission
tomography in cervical cancer: Relationship to prognosis, Journal of
Clinical Oncology, Apr;28(12), 2108-2113 (2010). doi: 10.1200/
JCO.2009.25.4151.
Kim, J.H., et al., Extrapulmonary small-cell carcinoma: A single-
institution experience, Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology,
May;34(5), 250-254 (2004) (available at: https://jjco.oxfordjournals.org/content/34/5/250.full.pdf+html).
Kliegman, R.M., et al., eds., Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics,
Nineteenth Edition, Philadelphia: Saunders, 2011.
Madan, V., et al., Non-melanoma skin cancer, The Lancet,
Feb;375(9715), 673-685 (2010). doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(09)61196-X.
Mansor, S., et al., Borderline ovarian mucinous neoplasm recurring
as small-cell carcinoma of hypercalcemic type: Evidence for an
epithelial histogenesis and relationship with ovarian mucinous
tumors for this enigmatic neoplasm, International Journal of
Gynecological Pathology, Jul;30(4), 380-385 (2011). doi: 10.1097/
PGP.0b013e318209aebc.
McLean, N., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck.
Comparison of clinical presentation and histopathologic features of
oral and sinonasal melanoma, Oral Oncology, Nov;44(11), 1039-1046
(2008). doi: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2008.01.014.
Mendenhal, W.M., et al., Head and neck mucosal melanoma, American
Journal of Clinical Oncology, Dec;28(6), 626-630 (2005) (available
at: https://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/pdf/melanoma.pdf).
Mueller, S., et al., Pediatric brain tumors: Current treatment
strategies for future therapeutic approaches, Neurotherapeutics: The
Journal of the American Society for Experimental Neurotherapeutics,
Jul;6(3), 570-586 (2009). doi: 10.1016/j.nurt.2009.
Nofech-Mozes, S., et al., Immunophenotyping of serous carcinoma of
the female genital tract, Modern Pathology, Sep;21(9), 1147-1155
(2008) (available at: https://www.nature.com/modpathol/journal/v21/n9/full/modpathol2008108a.html). doi: 10.1038/modpathol.2008.108.
Obrador-Hevia, A., et al., Molecular biology of mantle cell
lymphoma: From profiling studies to new therapeutic strategies,
Blood Reviews, Sep;23(5), 205-216 (2009). doi: 10.1016/
j.blre.2009.03.001.
Patrick, R.J., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma, Journal of the
American Academy of Dermatology, May;56(5), 828-834 (2007).
Pentheroudakis, G., et al., Serous papillary peritoneal carcinoma:
Unknown primary tumour, ovarian cancer counterpart or distinct
entity? A systematic review, Critical Reviews in Oncology
Hematology, Jul;75(1), 27-42 (2010). doi: 10.1016/
j.critrevonc.2009.10.003.
Pizer, B., et al., Treatment of recurrent central nervous system
primitive neuroectodermal tumours in children and adolescents:
Results of a Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group study, European
Journal of Cancer, Jun;47(9), 1389-1397 (2011). doi: 10.1016/
j.ejca.2011.03.004.
Prasad, M.L., et al., Primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck:
A proposal for microstaging localized, stage 1 (lymph node-negative)
tumors, Cancer, Apr;100(8), 1657-1664 (2004).
Rineer, J., et al., Small-cell carcinoma of the breast, Journal of
the National Medical Association, Oct;101(10), 1061-1064 (2009).
Sakorafas, G.H., et al., Lymphedema following axillary lymph node
dissection for breast cancer, Surgical Oncology, Nov;15(3), 153-165
(2006).
Schefler, A. C., et al., Brachytherapy for uveal melanoma: New
Developments and controversies, Retinal Physician, (2009) (available
at: https://www.retinalphysician.com/printarticle.aspx?article=103458).
Sinacki, M., et al., Pattern of care in locally advanced breast
cancer: Focus on local therapy, The Breast, Apr;20(2), 145-150
(2011). doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2010.08.008.
Soto, D.E., et al., Limited-stage extrapulmonary small-cell
carcinoma: Outcomes after modern chemotherapy and radiotherapy, The
Cancer Journal, Aug;13(4), 243-246 (2007).
Suami, H., et al., Overview of surgical treatments for breast
cancer-related lymphedema, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,
Dec;126(6), 1853-1863 (2010). doi: 10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181f44658.
Walsh, S.H., et al., Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenstrom's
macroglobulinemia derives from an extensively hypermutated B cell
that lacks ongoing somatic hypermutation, Leukemia Research,
Jul;29(7), 729-734 (2005).
Warren, A.G., et al., Lymphedema: A comprehensive review, Annals of
Plastic Surgery, Oct;59(4), 464-472 (2007).
Yii, NW., et al., Mucosal malignant melanoma of the head and neck:
The Marsden experience over half a century, Clinical Oncology,
Jun;15(4), 199-204 (2003).

We included these references in the rulemaking record for these
proposed rules and will make them available for inspection by
interested individuals who make arrangements with the contact person
above.

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 96.001, Social
Security--Disability Insurance; 96.002, Social Security--Retirement
Insurance; 96.004, Social Security--Survivors Insurance; and 96.006,
Supplemental Security Income)

List of Subjects in 20 CFR Part 404

Administrative practice and procedure, Blind, Disability benefits,
Old-age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Social security.

Dated: December 6, 2013.
Carolyn W. Colvin,
Acting Commissioner of Social Security.

For the reasons set out in the preamble, we propose to amend 20 CFR
chapter III part 404 subpart P as set forth below:

PART 404--FEDERAL OLD-AGE, SURVIVORS AND DISABILITY INSURANCE
(1950-)

Subpart P--Determining Disability and Blindness

0
1. The authority citation for subpart P of part 404 continues to read
as follows:

[[Page 76513]]

Authority: Secs. 202, 205(a)-(b) and (d)-(h), 216(i), 221(a),
(i), and (j), 222(c), 223, 225, and 702(a)(5) of the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 402, 405(a)-(b), and (d)-(h), 416(i), 421(a), (i),
and (j), 422(c), 423, 425, and 902(a)(5)); sec. 211(b), Pub. L. 104-
193, 110 Stat. 2105, 2189; sec. 202, Pub. L. 108-203, 118 Stat. 509
(42 U.S.C. 902 note).

0
2. Amend appendix 1 to subpart P of part 404 as follows:
0
a. Revise item 14 of the introductory text before part A of appendix 1.
0
b. Amend part A by revising the body system name for section 13.00 in
the table of contents.
0
c. Revise section 13.00 of part A of appendix 1.
0
d. Amend listing 13.02 of part A of appendix 1 by revising the heading,
revising current listing 13.02B, deleting current listing 13.02C,
redesignating current listing 13.02D as 13.02C, and adding new listings
13.02D and 13.02E.
0
e. Amend listing 13.03 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing
13.03B.
0
f. Amend listing 13.05 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing
13.05A2, adding listing 13.05A3 and replacing the word ``disease'' with
the word ``lymphoma'' in listing 13.05B.
0
g. Amend listing 13.06 of part A of appendix 1 by adding a cross-
reference in the first sentence of listing 13.06B1.
0
h. Amend listing 13.10 of part A of appendix 1 by revising 13.10A,
adding the word ``OR'' after listing 13.10C, and adding listings 13.10D
and 13.10E.
0
i. Amend listing 13.11 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word
``tumor'' in listing 13.11B with the word ``cancer'' and the word
``tumors'' in listing 13.11D with the word ``cancers,'' and adding a
cross-reference to the first sentence of listing 13.11D.
0
j. Amend listing 13.12 of part A of appendix 1 by revising 13.12C.
0
k. Revise listing 13.13 of part A of appendix 1.
0
l. Amend listing 13.14 of part A of appendix 1 by adding a cross-
reference in the first sentence of listing 13.14C.
0
m. Amend listing 13.15 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word
``OR'' after listing 13.15B, and adding listing 13.15C.
0
n. Amend listing 13.16 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word
``OR'' after listing 13.16B, and adding listing 13.16C.
0
o. Amend listing 13.17 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word
``OR'' after listing 13.17B, and adding listing 13.17C.
0
p. Amend listing 13.18 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word
``OR'' after listing 13.18C, and adding listing 13.18D.
0
q. Amend listing 13.19 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word
``tumors'' with the word ``cancer.''
0
r. Amend listing 13.20 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing
13.20B.
0
s. Amend listing 13.22 of part A of appendix 1 by adding the word
``OR'' after listing 13.22D, and adding listing 13.22E.
0
t. Amend listing 13.23 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listings
13.23B and 13.23E, adding the word ``OR'' after listing 13.23E, and
adding listing 13.23F.
0
u. Amend listing 13.24 of part A of appendix 1 by revising listing
13.24A, adding the word ``OR'' after listing 13.24B, and adding listing
13.24C.
0
v. Amend listing 13.25 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the word
``tumor'' with the word ``cancer.''
0
w. Amend listing 13.28 of part A of appendix 1 by replacing the phrase
``malignant neoplastic diseases'' with the word ``cancer.''
0
x. Add listing 13.29 after listing 13.28 of part A of appendix 1.
0
y. Revise section 113.00 of part B of appendix 1.
0
z. Amend listing 113.03 of part B of appendix 1 by changing the phrase
``2 years'' to the phrase ``24 months'' in listings 113.03A and
113.03B.
0
aa. Amend listing 113.05 of part B of appendix 1 by revising listings
113.05A and 113.05B, adding the word ``OR'' after listing 113.05C, and
adding listing 113.05D.
0
bb. Amend listing 113.06 of part B of appendix 1 by revising the first
sentence of listing 113.06A and adding a cross-reference to the first
sentence of listing 113.06B1.
0
cc. Revise listing 113.13 of part B of appendix 1.
0
dd. Add listing 113.29 after listing 113.21 of part B of appendix 1.
The revisions and additions read as follows:

Appendix 1 to Subpart P of Part 404--Listing of Impairments

* * * * *
14. Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases) (13.00 and 113.00):
[DATE 5 YEARS AFTER EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE FINAL RULES].
* * * * *

Part A

* * * * *

13.00 Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)

* * * * *

13.00 CANCER (MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES)

[[Page 76514]]

we do not need to defer adjudication to determine whether the
therapy will achieve its intended effect if we can make a fully
favorable determination or decision based on the length and effects
of therapy, or the residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 13.00G).
c. We need evidence under 13.02E, 13.11D, and 13.14C to
establish that your treating source initiated multimodal
antineoplastic therapy. We do not need to make a determination about
the length or effectiveness of your therapy. Multimodal therapy has
been initiated, and satisfies the requirements in 13.02E, 13.11D,
and 13.14C, when your treating source starts the first modality. We
may defer adjudication if your treating source plans multimodal
therapy and has not yet initiated it.
F. How do we evaluate impairments that do not meet one of the
cancer listings?
1. These listings are only examples of cancer that we consider
severe enough to prevent you from doing any gainful activity. If
your severe impairment(s) does not meet the criteria of any of these
listings, we must also consider whether you have an impairment(s)
that meets the criteria of a listing in another body system.
2. If you have a severe medically determinable impairment(s)
that does not meet a listing, we will determine whether your
impairment(s) medically equals a listing. (See Sec. Sec. 404.1526
and 416.926 of this chapter.) If your impairment(s) does not meet or
medically equal a listing, you may or may not have the residual
functional capacity to engage in substantial gainful activity. In
that situation, we proceed to the fourth, and, if necessary, the
fifth steps of the sequential evaluation process in Sec. Sec.
404.1520 and 416.920 of this chapter. We use the rules in Sec. Sec.
404.1594 and 416.994 of this chapter, as appropriate, when we decide
whether you continue to be disabled.
G. How do we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy?
1. How we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy under
the listings. In many cases, cancers meet listing criteria only if
the therapy is not effective and the cancer persists, progresses, or
recurs. However, as explained in the following paragraphs, we will
not delay adjudication if we can make a fully favorable
determination or decision based on the evidence in the case record.
2. Effects can vary widely.
a. We consider each case on an individual basis because the
therapy and its toxicity may vary widely. We will request a specific
description of the therapy, including these items:
i. Drugs given.
ii. Dosage.
iii. Frequency of drug administration.
iv. Plans for continued drug administration.
v. Extent of surgery.
vi. Schedule and fields of radiation therapy.
b. We will also request a description of the complications or
adverse effects of therapy, such as the following:
i. Continuing gastrointestinal symptoms.
ii. Persistent weakness.
iii. Neurological complications.
iv. Cardiovascular complications.
v. Reactive mental disorders.
3. Effects of therapy may change. The severity of the adverse
effects of antineoplastic therapy may change during treatment;
therefore, enough time must pass to allow us to evaluate the
therapy's effect. The residual effects of treatment are temporary in
most instances; however, on occasion, the effects may be disabling
for a consecutive period of at least 12 months.
4. When the initial antineoplastic therapy is effective. We
evaluate any post-therapeutic residual impairment(s) not included in
these listings under the criteria for the affected body system. We
must consider any complications of therapy. When the residual
impairment(s) does not meet or medically equal a listing, we must
consider its effect on your ability to do substantial gainful
activity.
H. How long do we consider your impairment to be disabling?
1. In some listings, we specify that we consider your impairment
to be disabling until a particular point in time (for example, at
least 12 months from the date of diagnosis). We may consider your
impairment to be disabling beyond this point when the medical and
other evidence justifies it.
2. When a listing does not contain such a specification, we will
consider an impairment(s) that meets or medically equals a listing
in this body system to be disabling until at least 3 years after
onset of complete remission. When the impairment(s) has been in
complete remission for at least 3 years, that is, the original tumor
or a recurrence (or relapse) and any metastases have not been
evident for at least 3 years, the impairment(s) will no longer meet
or medically equal the criteria of a listing in this body system.
3. Following the appropriate period, we will consider any
residuals, including residuals of the cancer or therapy (see
13.00G), in determining whether you are disabled. If you have a
recurrence or relapse of your cancer, your impairment may meet or
medically equal one of the listings in this body system again.
I. What do we mean by the following terms?
1. Antineoplastic therapy means surgery, radiation,
chemotherapy, hormones, immunotherapy, or bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation. When we refer to surgery as an antineoplastic
treatment, we mean surgical excision for treatment, not for
diagnostic purposes.
2. Inoperable means surgery is thought to be of no therapeutic
value or the surgery cannot be performed; for example, when you
cannot tolerate anesthesia or surgery because of another
impairment(s), or you have a cancer that is too large or that has
invaded crucial structures. This term does not include situations in
which your cancer could have been surgically removed but another
method of treatment was chosen; for example, an attempt at organ
preservation. Your physician may determine whether the cancer is
inoperable before or after you receive neoadjuvant therapy.
Neoadjuvant therapy is antineoplastic therapy, such as chemotherapy
or radiation, given before surgery in order to reduce the size of
the cancer.
3. Metastases means the spread of cancer cells by blood, lymph,
or other body fluid. This term does not include the spread of cancer
cells by direct extension of the cancer to other tissues or organs.
4. Multimodal therapy means antineoplastic therapy that is given
as a combination of at least two types of treatment given in close
proximity as a unified whole and usually planned before any
treatment has begun. There are three types of treatment modalities:
surgery, radiation, and systemic drug therapy (chemotherapy, hormone
therapy, and immunotherapy or biological modifier therapy). Examples
of multimodal therapy include:
a. Surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation.
b. Chemotherapy followed by surgery.
c. Chemotherapy and concurrent radiation.
5. Persistent means the planned initial antineoplastic therapy
failed to achieve a complete remission of your cancer; that is, your
cancer is evident, even if smaller, after the therapy has ended.
6. Progressive means the cancer becomes more extensive after
treatment; that is, there is evidence that your cancer is growing
after you have completed at least half of your planned initial
antineoplastic therapy.
7. Recurrent or relapse means the cancer that was in complete
remission or entirely removed by surgery has returned.
8. Unresectable means surgery or surgeries did not completely
remove the cancer. This term includes situations in which your
cancer is incompletely resected or the surgical margins are
positive. It does not include situations in which there is a finding
of a positive margin(s) if additional surgery obtains a margin(s)
that is clear. It also does not include situations in which the
cancer is completely resected but you are receiving adjuvant
therapy. Adjuvant therapy is antineoplastic therapy, such as
chemotherapy or radiation, given after surgery in order to eliminate
any remaining cancer cells or lessen the chance of recurrence.
J. Can we establish the existence of a disabling impairment
prior to the date of the evidence that shows the cancer satisfies
the criteria of a listing? Yes. We will consider factors such as:
1. The type of cancer and its location.
2. The extent of involvement when the cancer was first
demonstrated.
3. Your symptoms.
K. How do we evaluate specific cancers?
1. Lymphoma.
a. Many indolent (non-aggressive) lymphomas are controlled by
well-tolerated treatment modalities, although the lymphomas may
produce intermittent symptoms and signs. We may defer adjudicating
these cases for an appropriate period after therapy is initiated to
determine whether the therapy will achieve its intended effect,
which is usually to stabilize the disease process. (See 13.00E3.)
Once your disease stabilizes, we will assess severity based on the
extent of involvement of other organ systems and residuals from
therapy.
b. A change in therapy for indolent lymphomas is usually an
indicator that the therapy is not achieving its intended effect.

[[Page 76515]]

However, your impairment will not meet the requirements of 13.05A2
if your therapy is changed solely because you or your physician
chooses to change it and not because of a failure to achieve
stability.
c. We consider Hodgkin lymphoma that recurs more than 12 months
after completing initial antineoplastic therapy to be a new disease
rather than a recurrence.
2. Leukemia.
a. Acute leukemia. The initial diagnosis of acute leukemia,
including the accelerated or blast phase of chronic myelogenous
(granulocytic) leukemia, is based on definitive bone marrow
examination. Additional diagnostic information is based on
chromosomal analysis, cytochemical and surface marker studies on the
abnormal cells, or other methods consistent with the prevailing
state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. Recurrent disease
must be documented by peripheral blood, bone marrow, or
cerebrospinal fluid examination, or by testicular biopsy. The
initial and follow-up pathology reports should be included.
b. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). We need a diagnosis of
CML based on documented granulocytosis, including immature forms
such as differentiated or undifferentiated myelocytes and
myeloblasts, and a chromosomal analysis that demonstrates the
Philadelphia chromosome. In the absence of a chromosomal analysis,
or if the Philadelphia chromosome is not present, the diagnosis may
be made by other methods consistent with the prevailing state of
medical knowledge and clinical practice. The requirement for CML in
the accelerated or blast phase is met in 13.06B if laboratory
findings show the proportion of blast (immature) cells in the
peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater.
c. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
i. We require the diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
(CLL) to be documented by evidence of a chronic lymphocytosis of at
least 10,000 cells/mm\3\ for 3 months or longer, or other acceptable
diagnostic techniques consistent with the prevailing state of
medical knowledge and clinical practice.
ii. We evaluate the complications and residual impairment(s)
from CLL under the appropriate listings, such as 13.05A2 or the
hematological listings (7.00).
d. Elevated white cell count. In cases of chronic leukemia
(either myelogenous or lymphocytic), an elevated white cell count,
in itself, is not a factor in determining the severity of the
impairment.
3. Macroglobulinemia or heavy chain disease. We require the
diagnosis of these diseases to be confirmed by protein
electrophoresis or immunoelectrophoresis. We evaluate the resulting
impairment(s) under the appropriate listings, such as 13.05A2 or the
hematological listings (7.00).
4. Primary breast cancer.
a. We evaluate bilateral primary breast cancer (synchronous or
metachronous) under 13.10A, which covers local primary disease, and
not as a primary disease that has metastasized.
b. We evaluate secondary lymphedema that results from
antineoplastic therapy for breast cancer under 13.10E if the
lymphedema is treated by surgery to salvage or restore the
functioning of an upper extremity. Secondary lymphedema is edema
that results from obstruction or destruction of normal lymphatic
channels. We may not restrict our determination of the onset of
disability to the date of the surgery; we may establish an earlier
onset date of disability if the evidence in your case record
supports such a finding.
5. Carcinoma-in-situ. Carcinoma-in-situ, or preinvasive
carcinoma, usually responds to treatment. When we use the term
``carcinoma'' in these listings, it does not include carcinoma-in-
situ.
6. Primary central nervous system (CNS) cancers. We use the
criteria in 13.13 to evaluate cancers that originate within the CNS
(that is, brain and spinal cord cancers).
a. The CNS cancers listed in 13.13A1 are highly malignant and
respond poorly to treatment, and therefore we do not require
additional criteria to evaluate them.
b. We consider a CNS tumor to be malignant if it is classified
as Grade II, Grade III, or Grade IV under the World Health
Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the CNS (WHO
Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, 2007).
c. We evaluate benign (Grade I) CNS tumors under 11.05. We
evaluate metastasized CNS cancers from non-CNS sites under the
primary cancers (see 13.00C). We evaluate any complications of CNS
cancers, such as resultant neurological or psychological
impairments, under the criteria for the affected body system.
7. Primary peritoneal carcinoma. We use the criteria in 13.23E
to evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in women because this
cancer is often indistinguishable from ovarian cancer and is
generally treated the same way as ovarian cancer. We use the
criteria in 13.15A to evaluate primary peritoneal carcinoma in men
because many of these cases are similar to malignant mesothelioma.
8. Prostate cancer. We exclude ``biochemical recurrence'' in
13.24A, which is defined as an increase in the serum prostate-
specific antigen (PSA) level following the completion of
antineoplastic therapy. We need corroborating evidence to document
recurrence, such as radiological studies or findings on physical
examination.
9. Melanoma. We evaluate malignant melanoma that affects the
skin (cutaneous melanoma), eye (ocular melanoma), or mucosal
membranes (mucosal melanoma) under 13.29. We evaluate melanoma that
is not malignant that affects the skin (benign melanocytic tumor)
under the listings in 8.00 or other affected body systems.
L. How do we evaluate cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from
umbilical cord blood? Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation is
performed for a variety of cancers. We require the transplantation
occur before we evaluate it under these listings. We do not need to
restrict our determination of the onset of disability to the date of
the transplantation (13.05, 13.06, or 13.07) or the date of first
treatment under the treatment plan that includes transplantation
(13.28). We may be able to establish an earlier onset date of
disability due to your transplantation if the evidence in your case
record supports such a finding.
1. Acute leukemia (including T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma) or
accelerated or blast phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or
stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will
consider you to be disabled until at least 24 months from the date
of diagnosis or relapse, or at least 12 months from the date of
transplantation, whichever is later.
2. Lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or chronic phase of CML. If you
undergo bone marrow or stem cell transplantation for any of these
disorders, we will consider you to be disabled until at least 12
months from the date of transplantation.
3. Other cancers. We will evaluate any other cancer treated with
bone marrow or stem cell transplantation under 13.28, regardless of
whether there is another listing that addresses that impairment. The
length of time we will consider you to be disabled depends on
whether you undergo allogeneic or autologous transplantation.
a. Allogeneic bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. If you
undergo allogeneic transplantation (transplantation from an
unrelated donor or a related donor other than an identical twin), we
will consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the
date of transplantation.
b. Autologous bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. If you
undergo autologous transplantation (transplantation of your own
cells or cells from your identical twin (syngeneic
transplantation)), we will consider you to be disabled until at
least 12 months from the date of the first treatment under the
treatment plan that includes transplantation. The first treatment
usually refers to the initial therapy given to prepare you for
transplantation.
4. Evaluating disability after the appropriate time period has
elapsed. We consider any residual impairment(s), such as
complications arising from:
a. Graft-versus-host (GVH) disease.
b. Immunosuppressant therapy, such as frequent infections.
c. Significant deterioration of other organ systems.
13.01 Category of Impairments, Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic
Diseases)
13.02 Soft tissue cancers of the head and neck (except salivary
glands--13.08--and thyroid gland--13.09).
* * * * *
B. Persistent or recurrent disease following initial
antineoplastic therapy, except persistence or recurrence in the true
vocal cord.
OR
C. With metastases beyond the regional lymph nodes.
OR
D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
OR
E. Soft tissue cancers originating in the head and neck treated
with multimodal antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider
under a disability until at least 18 months from the date of
diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual

[[Page 76516]]

impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system.
13.03 Skin (except malignant melanoma--13.29).
* * * * *
B. Carcinoma invading deep extradermal structures (for example,
skeletal muscle, cartilage, or bone).
* * * * *
13.05 Lymphoma (including mycosis fungoides, but excluding T-
cell lymphoblastic lymphoma--13.06). (See 13.00K1 and 13.00K2c.)
A. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as described in 1, 2, or 3:
* * * * *
2. Indolent lymphoma (including mycosis fungoides and follicular
small cleaved cell) requiring initiation of more than one (single
mode or multimodal) antineoplastic treatment regimen within a period
of 12 consecutive months. Consider under a disability from at least
the date of initiation of the treatment regimen that failed within
12 months.
3. Mantle cell lymphoma.
OR
B. Hodgkin lymphoma with failure to achieve clinically complete
remission, or recurrent disease within 12 months of completing
initial antineoplastic therapy.
* * * * *
13.06 Leukemia. (See 13.00K2.)
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Accelerated or blast phase (see 13.00K2b).
* * * * *
13.10 Breast (except sarcoma--13.04). (See 13.00K4.)
A. Locally advanced cancer (inflammatory carcinoma, cancer of
any size with direct extension to the chest wall or skin, or cancer
of any size with metastases to the ipsilateral internal mammary
nodes).
* * * * *
C. * * *
OR
D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
OR
E. With secondary lymphedema that is caused by antineoplastic
therapy and treated by surgery to salvage or restore the functioning
of an upper extremity. (See 13.00K4b.) Consider under a disability
until at least 12 months from the date of the surgery that treated
the secondary lymphedema. Thereafter, evaluate any residual
impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body system.
13.11 Skeletal system--sarcoma.
* * * * *
B. Recurrent cancer (except local recurrence) after initial
antineoplastic therapy.
* * * * *
D. All other cancers originating in bone with multimodal
antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider under a disability
for 12 months from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any
residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body
system.
13.12 Maxilla, orbit, or temporal fossa.
* * * * *
C. Cancer with extension to the orbit, meninges, sinuses, or
base of the skull.
13.13 Nervous system. (See 13.00K6.)
A. Primary central nervous system (CNS; that is, brain and
spinal cord) cancers, as described in 1, 2, or 3:
1. Glioblastoma multiforme, ependymoblastoma, and diffuse
intrinsic brain stem gliomas (see 13.00K6a).
2. Any Grade III or Grade IV CNS cancer (see 13.00K6b),
including astrocytomas, sarcomas, and medulloblastoma and other
primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs).
3. Any primary CNS cancer, as described in a or b:
a. Metastatic.
b. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.
OR
B. Primary peripheral nerve or spinal root cancers, as described
in 1 or 2:
1. Metastatic.
2. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.
13.14 Lungs.
* * * * *
C. Carcinoma of the superior sulcus (including Pancoast tumors)
with multimodal antineoplastic therapy (see 13.00E3c). Consider
under a disability until at least 18 months from the date of
diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the
criteria for the affected body system.
13.15 Pleura or mediastinum.
* * * * *
B. * * *
OR
C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.16 Esophagus or stomach.
* * * * *
B. * * *
OR
C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.17 Small intestine--carcinoma, sarcoma, or carcinoid.
* * * * *
B. * * *
OR
C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.18 Large intestine (from ileocecal valve to and including
anal canal).
* * * * *
C. * * *
OR
D. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.19 Liver or gallbladder--cancer of the liver, gallbladder, or
bile ducts.
13.20 Pancreas.
* * * * *
B. Islet cell carcinoma that is physiologically active and is
either inoperable or unresectable.
* * * * *
13.22 Urinary bladder--carcinoma.
* * * * *
D. * * *
OR
E. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.23 Cancers of the female genital tract--carcinoma or sarcoma
(including primary peritoneal carcinoma).
* * * * *
B. Uterine cervix, as described in 1, 2, or 3:
1. Extending to the pelvic wall, lower portion of the vagina, or
adjacent or distant organs.
2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.
3. With metastases to distant (for example, para-aortic or
supraclavicular) lymph nodes.
* * * * *
E. Ovaries, as described in 1 or 2:
1. All cancers except germ-cell cancers, with at least one of
the following:
a. Extension beyond the pelvis; for example, implants on, or
direct extension to, peritoneal, omental, or bowel surfaces.
b. Metastases to or beyond the regional lymph nodes.
c. Recurrent following initial antineoplastic therapy.
2. Germ-cell cancers--progressive or recurrent following initial
antineoplastic therapy.
OR
F. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.24 Prostate gland--carcinoma.
A. Progressive or recurrent (not including biochemical
recurrence) despite initial hormonal intervention. (See 13.00K8.)
OR
B. * * *
OR
C. Small-cell (oat cell) carcinoma.
13.25 Testicles--cancer with metastatic disease progressive or
recurrent following initial chemotherapy.
* * * * *
13.28 Cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation. (See 13.00L.)
* * * * *
13.29 Malignant melanoma (including skin, ocular, or mucosal
melanomas), as described in either A or B:
A. Recurrent (except an additional primary melanoma at a
different site, which is not considered to be recurrent disease)
following either 1, 2, or 3:
1. Wide excision (skin melanoma).
2. Enucleation of the eye (ocular melanoma).
3. Complete surgical excision (mucosal melanoma).
OR
B. With metastases as described in 1, 2, or 3:
1. Metastases to one or more clinically apparent nodes; that is,
nodes that are detected by imaging studies (excluding
lymphoscintigraphy) or by clinical evaluation (palpable).
2. If the nodes are not clinically apparent, with metastases to
four or more nodes.
3. Metastases to adjacent skin (satellite lesions) or distant
sites.
* * * * *
Part B
* * * * *

113.00 Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)

* * * * *

[[Page 76517]]

113.00 CANCER (MALIGNANT NEOPLASTIC DISEASES)

A. What impairments do these listings cover? We use these
listings to evaluate all cancers (malignant neoplastic diseases),
except certain cancers associated with human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) infection. If you have HIV infection, we use the criteria in
114.08E to evaluate carcinoma of the cervix, Kaposi sarcoma,
lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal and anal
margin.
B. What do we consider when we evaluate cancer under these
listings? We will consider factors including:
1. Origin of the cancer.
2. Extent of involvement.
3. Duration, frequency, and response to antineoplastic therapy.
4. Effects of any post-therapeutic residuals.
C. How do we apply these listings? We apply the criteria in a
specific listing to a cancer originating from that specific site.
D. What evidence do we need?
1. We need medical evidence that specifies the type, extent, and
site of the primary, recurrent, or metastatic lesion. In the rare
situation in which the primary site cannot be identified, we will
use evidence documenting the site(s) of metastasis to evaluate the
impairment under 13.27 in part A.
2. For operative procedures, including a biopsy or a needle
aspiration, we generally need a copy of both the:
a. Operative note, and
b. Pathology report.
3. When we cannot get these documents, we will accept the
summary of hospitalization(s) or other medical reports. This
evidence should include details of the findings at surgery and, when
appropriate, the pathological findings.
4. In some situations, we may also need evidence about
recurrence, persistence, or progression of the cancer, the response
to therapy, and any significant residuals. (See 113.00G.)
E. When do we need longitudinal evidence?
1. Cancer with distant metastases. Most cancer of childhood
consists of a local lesion with metastases to regional lymph nodes
and, less often, distant metastases. We generally do not need
longitudinal evidence for cancer that has metastasized beyond the
regional lymph nodes because this cancer usually meets the
requirements of a listing. Exceptions are for cancer with distant
metastases that is expected to respond to antineoplastic therapy.
For these exceptions, we usually need a longitudinal record of 3
months after therapy starts to determine whether the therapy
achieved its intended effect, and whether this effect is likely to
persist.
2. Other cancers. When there are no distant metastases, many of
the listings require that we consider your response to initial
antineoplastic therapy; that is, the initial planned treatment
regimen. This therapy may consist of a single modality or a
combination of modalities; that is, multimodal therapy (see
113.00I3).
3. Types of treatment.
a. Whenever the initial planned therapy is a single modality,
enough time must pass to allow a determination about whether the
therapy will achieve its intended effect. If the treatment fails,
the failure often happens within 6 months after treatment starts,
and there will often be a change in the treatment regimen.
b. Whenever the initial planned therapy is multimodal, we
usually cannot make a determination about the effectiveness of the
therapy until we can determine the effects of all the planned
modalities. In some cases, we may need to defer adjudication until
we can assess the effectiveness of therapy. However, we do not need
to defer adjudication to determine whether the therapy will achieve
its intended effect if we can make a fully favorable determination
or decision based on the length and effects of therapy, or the
residuals of the cancer or therapy (see 113.00G).
F. How do we evaluate impairments that do not meet one of the
cancer listings?
1. These listings are only examples of cancers that we consider
severe enough to result in marked and severe functional limitations.
If your severe impairment(s) does not meet the criteria of any of
these listings, we must also consider whether you have an
impairment(s) that meets the criteria of a listing in another body
system.
2. If you have a severe medically determinable impairment(s)
that does not meet a listing, we will determine whether your
impairment(s) medically equals a listing. (See Sec. Sec. 404.1526
and 416.926 of this chapter.) If it does not, we will also consider
whether you have an impairment(s) that functionally equals the
listings. (See Sec. 416.926a of this chapter.) We use the rules in
Sec. 416.994a of this chapter when we decide whether you continue
to be disabled.
G. How do we consider the effects of antineoplastic therapy?
1. How we consider the effects of therapy under the listings. In
many cases, cancers meet listing criteria only if the therapy is not
effective and the cancer persists, progresses, or recurs. However,
as explained in the following paragraphs, we will not delay
adjudication if we can make a fully favorable determination or
decision based on the evidence in the case record.
2. Effects can vary widely.
a. We consider each case on an individual basis because the
therapy and its toxicity may vary widely. We will request a specific
description of the therapy, including these items:
i. Drugs given.
ii. Dosage.
iii. Frequency of drug administration.
iv. Plans for continued drug administration.
v. Extent of surgery.
vi. Schedule and fields of radiation therapy.
b. We will also request a description of the complications or
adverse effects of therapy, such as the following:
i. Continuing gastrointestinal symptoms.
ii. Persistent weakness.
iii. Neurological complications.
iv. Cardiovascular complications.
v. Reactive mental disorders.
3. Effects of therapy may change. The severity of the adverse
effects of antineoplastic therapy may change during treatment;
therefore, enough time must pass to allow us to evaluate the
therapy's effect. The residual effects of treatment are temporary in
most instances; however, on occasion, the effects may be disabling
for a consecutive period of at least 12 months.
4. When the initial antineoplastic therapy is effective. We
evaluate any post-therapeutic residual impairment(s) not included in
these listings under the criteria for the affected body system. We
must consider any complications of therapy. When the residual
impairment(s) does not meet a listing, we must consider whether it
medically equals a listing, or, as appropriate, functionally equals
the listings.
H. How long do we consider your impairment to be disabling?
1. In some listings, we specify that we will consider your
impairment to be disabling until a particular point in time (for
example, at least 12 months from the date of diagnosis). We may
consider your impairment to be disabling beyond this point when the
medical and other evidence justifies it.
2. When a listing does not contain such a specification, we will
consider an impairment(s) that meets or medically equals a listing
in this body system to be disabling until at least 3 years after
onset of complete remission. When the impairment(s) has been in
complete remission for at least 3 years, that is, the original tumor
or a recurrence (or relapse) and any metastases have not been
evident for at least 3 years, the impairment(s) will no longer meet
or medically equal the criteria of a listing in this body system.
3. Following the appropriate period, we will consider any
residuals, including residuals of the cancer or therapy (see
113.00G), in determining whether you are disabled. If you have a
recurrence or relapse of your cancer, your impairment may meet or
medically equal one of the listings in this body system again.
I. What do we mean by the following terms?
1. Antineoplastic therapy means surgery, radiation,
chemotherapy, hormones, immunotherapy, or bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation. When we refer to surgery as an antineoplastic
treatment, we mean surgical excision for treatment, not for
diagnostic purposes.
2. Metastases means the spread of cancer cells by blood, lymph,
or other body fluid. This term does not include the spread of cancer
cells by direct extension of the cancer to other tissues or organs.
3. Multimodal therapy means antineoplastic therapy that is given
as a combination of at least two types of treatment given in close
proximity as a unified whole and usually planned before any
treatment has begun. There are three types of treatment modalities:
surgery, radiation, and systemic drug therapy (chemotherapy, hormone
therapy, and immunotherapy or biological modifier therapy). Examples
of multimodal therapy include:
a. Surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation.
b. Chemotherapy followed by surgery.
c. Chemotherapy and concurrent radiation.

[[Page 76518]]

4. Persistent means the planned initial antineoplastic therapy
failed to achieve a complete remission of your cancer; that is, your
cancer is evident, even if smaller, after the therapy has ended.
5. Progressive means the cancer becomes more extensive after
treatment; that is, there is evidence that your cancer is growing
after you have completed at least half of your planned initial
antineoplastic therapy.
6. Recurrent or relapse means a cancer that was in complete
remission or entirely removed by surgery has returned.
J. Can we establish the existence of a disabling impairment
prior to the date of the evidence that shows the cancer satisfies
the criteria of a listing? Yes. We will consider factors such as:
1. The type of cancer and its location.
2. The extent of involvement when the cancer was first
demonstrated.
3. Your symptoms.
K. How do we evaluate specific cancers?
1. Lymphoma.
a. We provide criteria for evaluating lymphomas that are
disseminated or have not responded to antineoplastic therapy in
113.05.
b. Lymphoblastic lymphoma is treated with leukemia-based
protocols, so we evaluate this type of cancer under 113.06.
2. Leukemia.
a. Acute leukemia. The initial diagnosis of acute leukemia,
including the accelerated or blast phase of chronic myelogenous
(granulocytic) leukemia, is based on definitive bone marrow
examination. Additional diagnostic information is based on
chromosomal analysis, cytochemical and surface marker studies on the
abnormal cells, or other methods consistent with the prevailing
state of medical knowledge and clinical practice. Recurrent disease
must be documented by peripheral blood, bone marrow, or
cerebrospinal fluid examination, or by testicular biopsy. The
initial and follow-up pathology reports should be included.
b. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). We need a diagnosis of
CML based on documented granulocytosis, including immature forms
such as differentiated or undifferentiated myelocytes and
myeloblasts, and a chromosomal analysis that demonstrates the
Philadelphia chromosome. In the absence of a chromosomal analysis,
or if the Philadelphia chromosome is not present, the diagnosis may
be made by other methods consistent with the prevailing state of
medical knowledge and clinical practice. The requirement for CML in
the accelerated or blast phase is met in 113.06B if laboratory
findings show the proportion of blast (immature) cells in the
peripheral blood or bone marrow is 10 percent or greater.
c. Juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia (JCML). JCML is a rare,
Philadelphia-chromosome-negative childhood leukemia that is
aggressive and clinically similar to acute myelogenous leukemia. We
evaluate JCML under 113.06A.
d. Elevated white cell count. In cases of chronic leukemia, an
elevated white cell count, in itself, is not a factor in determining
the severity of the impairment.
3. Malignant solid tumors. The tumors we consider under 113.03
include the histiocytosis syndromes except for solitary eosinophilic
granuloma. We do not evaluate thyroid cancer (see 113.09),
retinoblastomas (see 113.12), primary central nervous system (CNS)
cancers (see 113.13), or neuroblastomas (see 113.21) under this
listing.
4. Primary central nervous system (CNS) cancers. We use the
criteria in 113.13 to evaluate cancers that originate within the CNS
(that is, brain and spinal cord cancers).
a. The CNS cancers listed in 113.13A are highly malignant and
respond poorly to treatment, and therefore we do not require
additional criteria to evaluate them.
b. We consider a CNS tumor to be malignant if it is classified
as Grade II, Grade III, or Grade IV under the World Health
Organization (WHO) classification of tumors of the CNS (WHO
Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System, 2007).
c. We evaluate benign (Grade I) CNS tumors under 111.05. We
evaluate metastasized CNS cancers from non-CNS sites under the
primary cancers (see 113.00C). We evaluate any complications of CNS
cancers, such as resultant neurological or psychological
impairments, under the criteria for the affected body system.
5. Retinoblastoma. The treatment for bilateral retinoblastoma
usually results in a visual impairment. We will evaluate any
resulting visual impairment under 102.02.
6. Melanoma. We evaluate malignant melanoma that affects the
skin (cutaneous melanoma), eye (ocular melanoma), or mucosal
membranes (mucosal melanoma) under 113.29. We evaluate melanoma that
is not malignant that affects the skin (benign melanocytic tumor)
under the listings in 108.00 or other affected body systems.
L. How do we evaluate cancer treated by bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation, including transplantation using stem cells from
umbilical cord blood? Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation is
performed for a variety of cancers. We require the transplantation
occur before we evaluate it under these listings. We do not need to
restrict our determination of the onset of disability to the date of
transplantation (113.05 or 113.06). We may be able to establish an
earlier onset date of disability due to your transplantation if the
evidence in your case record supports such a finding.
1. Acute leukemia (including all types of lymphoblastic
lymphomas lymphoblastic lymphoma and JCML) or accelerated or blast
phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow or stem cell
transplantation for any of these disorders, we will consider you to
be disabled until at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis or
relapse, or at least 12 months from the date of transplantation,
whichever is later.
2. Lymphoma or chronic phase of CML. If you undergo bone marrow
or stem cell transplantation for any of these disorders, we will
consider you to be disabled until at least 12 months from the date
of transplantation.
3. Evaluating disability after the appropriate time period has
elapsed. We consider any residual impairment(s), such as
complications arising from:
a. Graft-versus-host (GVH) disease.
b. Immunosuppressant therapy, such as frequent infections.
c. Significant deterioration of other organ systems.
113.01 Category of Impairments, Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic
Diseases)
113.03 Malignant solid tumors. Consider under a disability:
A. For 24 months from the date of initial diagnosis. Thereafter,
evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the
affected body system.
OR
B. For 24 months from the date of recurrence of active disease.
Thereafter, evaluate any residual impairment(s) under the criteria
for the affected body system.
113.05 Lymphoma (excluding all types of lymphoblastic
lymphomas--113.06). (See 113.00K1.)
A. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (including Burkitt and anaplastic large
cell), with either 1 or 2:
1. Bone marrow, brain, spinal cord, liver, or lung involvement
at initial diagnosis. Consider under a disability for 24 months from
the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate under 113.05A2, or any
residual impairments(s) under the criteria for the affected body
system.
2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.

OR
B. Hodgkin lymphoma, with either 1 or 2:
1. Bone marrow, brain, spinal cord, liver, or lung involvement
at initial diagnosis. Consider under a disability for 24 months from
the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, evaluate under 113.05B2, or any
residual impairment(s) under the criteria for the affected body
system.
2. Persistent or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.

OR
C. * * *
OR
D. Mantle cell lymphoma.
113.06 Leukemia. (See 113.00K2.)
A. Acute leukemia (including all types of lymphoblastic
lymphomas and juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia (JCML)).

OR
B. * * *
1. Accelerated or blast phase (see 113.00K2b).
* * * * *
113.13 Nervous system. (See 113.00K4.) Primary central nervous
system (CNS; that is, brain and spinal cord) cancers, as described
in A, B, or C:
A. Glioblastoma multiforme, ependymoblastoma, and diffuse
intrinsic brain stem gliomas (see 113.00K4a).
B. Any Grade III or Grade IV CNS cancer (see 113.00K4b),
including astrocytomas, sarcomas, and medulloblastoma and other
primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs).
C. Any primary CNS cancer, as described in 1 or 2:
1. Metastatic.
2. Progressive or recurrent following initial antineoplastic
therapy.
* * * * *
113.29 Malignant melanoma (including skin, ocular, or mucosal
melanomas), as described in either A or B:
A. Recurrent (except an additional primary melanoma at a
different site, which is not

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considered to be recurrent disease) following either 1, 2, or 3:
1. Wide excision (skin melanoma).
2. Enucleation of the eye (ocular melanoma).
3. Complete surgical excision (mucosal melanoma).
OR
B. With metastases as described in 1, 2, or 3:
1. Metastases to one or more clinically apparent nodes; that is,
nodes that are detected by imaging studies (excluding
lymphoscintigraphy) or by clinical evaluation (palpable).
2. If the nodes are not clinically apparent, with metastases to
four or more nodes.
3. Metastases to adjacent skin (satellite lesions) or distant
sites.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2013-30088 Filed 12-16-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4191-02-P

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