The Use of a Poisson Regression to Evaluate Antihistamines and Fatal Aircraft Mishaps in Instrument Meteorological Conditions.

Background: Research indicates that first-generation antihistamine usage may impair pilot performance by increasing the likelihood of vestibular illusions, spatial disorientation, and/or cognitive impairment. Second- and third-generation antihistamines generally have fewer impairing side effects and are approved for pilot use. We hypothesized that toxicological findings positive for second- and third-generation antihistamines are less likely to be associated with pilots involved in fatal mishaps than first-generation antihistamines.

Tomaculous neuropathy in an airline pilot.

Tomaculous neuropathy is an infrequently reported cause of peripheral neuropathy. It typically represents an inherited condition, although de novo chromosomal mutations have been reported. The condition may be easily confused with other sensorineural neuropathies unless a high degree of suspicion is maintained and a thorough clinical evaluation is performed.

Pilot medical history and medications found in post mortem specimens from aviation accidents.

Introduction: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations require pilots to report all medications and medical conditions for review and consideration as to the overall suitability of the pilot for flight activities.

Methods: Specimens were collected by local pathologists from aviation accidents and sent to the Bioaeronautical Sciences Research Laboratory for analysis. The results of such tests were entered into the Forensic Case Management System.