Excerpts from AME Guide |
Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 35. Lungs and Chest
The following info from the FAA 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.Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 35. Lungs and Chest - Bronchiectasis (Pulmonary)
Disease/Condition | Class | Evaluation Data | Disposition |
---|---|---|---|
Bronchiectasis | All | Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report | If moderate to severe - Requires FAA Decision |
Bronchiectasis is a chronic inflammatory or degenerative condition of one or more bronchi or bronchioles of the lungs marked by dilatation and loss of elasticity of the walls. Infection causes progression of the disease. If left untreated, bronchiectasis will continue to damage lung tissue and bronchial tubes and cause COPD (emphysema) and severe breathing difficulties.
Dilation of the bronchial walls results in airflow obstruction and impaired clearance of secretions because the dilated areas interrupt normal air pressure of the bronchial tubes, causing sputum to pool inside the dilated areas instead of being pushed upward. The pooled sputum provides an environment conducive to the growth of germs, and these areas of the lungs are thus vulnerable to infection. The more the lungs experience infections, the more lung tissue and alveoli are damaged, and the more inelastic and dilated the bronchial tubes become, perpetuating the disease cycle.
Other FAA (Aeromedical) Lung Issues Relevant to Pilots and Airman:
- Allergies
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Disease of the Lungs, Pleura, or Mediastinum
- Pleura and Pleural Cavity
- Pulmonary
- Sleep Apnea
Note: Numbers correspond to the required entry in the AME portion of the FAA Form 8500-8
Note: Numbers correspond to the required entry in the AME portion of the FAA Form 8500-8