Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners
Decision Considerations
Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 40. Skin
Cutaneous| Disease/Condition | Class | Evaluation Data | Disposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatomyositis; Deep Mycotic Infections; Eruptive Xanthomas; Hansen's Disease; Lupus Erythematosus; Raynaud's Phenomenon; Sarcoid; or Scleroderma | All | Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report | Requires FAA Decision |
| Kaposi's Sarcoma | All | Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report. See HIV Protocol | Requires FAA Decision |
| Use of isotretinoin (Accutane) | All | For applicants using isotretinoin, there is a mandatory 2-week waiting period after starting isotretinoin prior to consideration. This medication can be associated with vision and psychiatric side effects of aeromedical concern - specifically decreased night vision/night blindness and depression. These side-effects can occur even after cessation of isotretinoin. A report must be provided with detailed, specific comment on presence or absence of psychiatric and vision side-effects. The AME must document these findings in Item 60., Comments on History and Findings. | Any history of psychiatric side-effect requires FAA Decision. If there are no vision, psychiatric, or other aeromedically unacceptable side-effects – Issue with restriction: “NOT VALID FOR NIGHT FLYING.” To remove restriction: *See Note |
- Use of isotretinoin must be permanently discontinued for at least 2 weeks prior to consideration date (confirmed by the prescribing physician)
- An eye evaluation in accordance with specifications in 8500-7
- Airman must provide a statement of discontinuation
- Confirming the absence of any visual disturbances and psychiatric symptoms, and
- Acknowledging requirement to notify the FAA and obtain clearance prior to performing any aviation safety-related duties if use of isotretinoin is resumed
