Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners
Decision Considerations
Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 30. Ear Drums
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.Disease/Condition | Class | Evaluation Data | Disposition |
---|---|---|---|
Perforation that has associated pathology | All | Establish etiology, treatment, and submit all pertinent medical information | Requires FAA Decision |
Perforation which has resolved without any other clinical symptoms | All | Submit all pertinent medical information | If no physiologic effects - Issue |
Some conditions may have several possible causes or exhibit multiple symptomatology. Episodic disorders of dizziness or disequilibrium require careful evaluation and consideration by the FAA. Transient processes, such as those associated with acute labyrinthitis or benign positional vertigo may not disqualify an applicant when fully recovered. (Also see Item 46 for a discussion of syncope and vertigo).