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Dr. Roberts, I'm a pilot with a third class medical that has developed a food allergy that has caused Urticaria. An allergist did a blood test and said it came back moderate positive to beef. Obviously I am now watching what I eat and at the suggestion of my allergist (she called it cheap insurance), I now carry an Epipen. What will my AME do when I go to renew my medical in six months? Assuming it has to go to OKC, will it help if I go in early to allow time to overcome the computer backup ant the FAA? You helped me about two years ago when I got back into flying after a few years off. I thank you. You are a great asset to a lot of nervous middle aged pilots.

...................................................................... Yes, I know...I am one. But that is a different story. Allergic reactions to specific allergens, in your case, beef, are usually not a problem with the FAA unless they result in system symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, cardiac irregularities, etc. You describe a skin rash only. I suggest that you get a letter from your allergist stating that you are allergic to beef, and have been told to avoid red meat. That letter should mention specifically that you did not have any major systemic allergic reaction. Mention also what medication you are taking (if any). Yes, I would send in the information now. That would be expeditious. Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

I have psoriasis over less than 1/2 of 1% of my body (one patch on my elbow and several throughout my scalp). Will this disqualify me from obtaining a pilot position with any of the "major" airlines? I am successfully controlling it with swim workouts and topical solutions. Philip

...................................................................... Should not be a problem. Goodluck! Doc     [Topics]

I had a melanoma lesion on my back. It has been surgically removed. The dermatologist said that the pathology reports returned showing that all of the lesion was removed. I have no metastisis. What should I do? Jack

...................................................................... You need to submit a report from your dermatologist indicating the diagnosis, what was done, and that you are essentially cured. Include the path report as well as any other tests that were conducted. Melanoma requires a special issuance on a case by case basis. Stephen     [Topics]

Would a localized basal cell condition which has been removed result in disqualification for a second class medical certificate? Does the FAA require any special exam or information to obtain second class medical certificate following treatment for basal cell skin cancer? Ronald

...................................................................... Yes, assuming that the lesion has been completely removed, and with a letter from your treating dermatologist you can get a medical. The FAA will require periodic letters from your dermatologist verifying that no other lesions have popped up. Doc