Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Decision Considerations – Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 32. Ophthalmoscopic

The following lists the most common conditions of aeromedical significance, and course of action that should be taken by the examiner as defined by the protocol and disposition in the table. Medical certificates must not be issued to an applicant with medical conditions that require deferral, or for any condition not listed that may result in sudden or subtle incapacitation without consulting the AMCD or the RFS. Medical documentation must be submitted for any condition in order to support an issuance of an airman medical certificate.

Common Conditions and Course of Action
Disease/Condition Class Evaluation Data Disposition
Chorioretinitis; Coloboma; Corneal Ulcer or Dystrophy; Optic Atrophy or Neuritis; Retinal Degeneration or Detachment; Retinitis Pigmentosa; Papilledema; or Uveitis All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Glaucoma (treated or untreated) All Review all pertinent medical information and current status report, including Form 8500-14 See CACI – Glaucoma Worksheet (PDF). If airman meets all certification criteria – Issue.

All others required FAA decision. Submit all evaluation data.

Initial Special Issuance – Requires FAA Decision

Followup Special
Issuances
– See AASI Protocol
Lattice Degeneration All See Disposition Table (PDF) See Disposition Table
Macular Degeneration; Macular Detachment All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Tumors All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Vascular Occlusion; Retinopathy All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Last updated: Wednesday, May 29, 2024