Eye Exam : Signs and Findings
FAA Ophthalmologic Examination Techniques
Excerpts from Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners
Application Process for Medical Certification
Exam Techniques and Criteria for Qualification
Items 31-34. Eye
Consider the following signs:
- It is recommended that the AME consider the following signs during the course of the eye examination:
- Color — redness or suffusion of allergy, drug use, glaucoma, infection, trauma, jaundice, ciliary flush of Iritis, and the green or brown Kayser-Fleischer Ring of Wilson's disease.
- Swelling — abscess, allergy, cyst, exophthalmos, myxedema, or tumor.
- Other — clarity, discharge, dryness, ptosis, protosis, spasm (tic), tropion, or ulcer.
For guidance regarding the conduction of visual acuity, field of vision, heterophoria, and color vision tests, please refer to Items 50-54.
The FAA specifices that the examination of the eyes be directed toward the discovery of diseases or defects that may cause a failure in visual function while flying or discomfort sufficient to interfere with safely performing airman duties.
The Examiner should personally explore the applicant's history by asking questions concerning any changes in vision, unusual visual experiences (halos, scintillations, etc.), sensitivity to light, injuries, surgery, or current use of medication. Does the applicant report inordinate difficulties with eye fatigue or strain? Is there a history of serious eye disease such as glaucoma or other disease commonly associated with secondary eye changes, such as diabetes? (Also see Item 53 and Item 54).
Links to other Portions of the Eye Examination:
Return to Index of Specific Conditions
Return to Part 67 Index
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