Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Decision Considerations - Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 40. Skin

Cutaneous

Common Conditions and Course of Action
Disease/Condition Class Evaluation Data Disposition
Dermatomyositis; Deep Mycotic Infections; Eruptive Xanthomas; Hansen's Disease; Lupus Erythematosus; Sarcoid; or Scleroderma All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Raynaud’s Syndrome

(Primary Raynaud’s/ Raynaud’s Disease or Secondary Raynaud’s/Raynaud’s Phenomenon)		 All See Vascular Section See Vascular Section
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

* 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

 

Last updated: Wednesday, May 31, 2023