Pilonidal cyst/history of cystectomy within last 6 months or continued post-op complications
"Current pilonidal cyst or history of pilonidal cystectomy that is symptomatic, unhealed or less than 6 months post operative"
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D111.40 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to pilonidal cyst/history of cystectomy within last 6 months or continued post-op complications do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“Cysts, if: (1) The current cyst (other than pilonidal cyst) is of such a size or location as to reasonably be expected to interfere with properly wearing military equipment. (2) The current pilonidal cyst is associated with a tumor mass or discharging sinus, or is a surgically resected pilonidal cyst that is symptomatic, unhealed, or less than 6 months post-operative. A pilonidal cyst that has been simply incised and drained does not meet the military accession medical entrance standard.”
“History of recurrent or chronic non-specific dermatitis within the last 24 months, including contact (irritant or allergic) or dyshidrotic dermatitis requiring treatment other than over-the-counter medication.”
“Severe nodulocystic acne, on or off antibiotics.”
“History of atopic dermatitis or eczema requiring treatment other than over-the-counter hydrocortisone or moisturizer therapy in the last 36 months or with active lesions or residual hyperpigmented or hypopigmented areas at the time of the entrance examination.”
“History of any dermatologic condition severe enough to warrant use of systemic steroids for greater than 2 months, or any use of other systemic immunosuppressant medications.”
Waiver Outlook for Skin & Dermatology Conditions
Key Factors for Waiver Approval
- No requirement for ongoing prescription medication (especially steroids)
- Skin clear of active lesions for at least one year
- Condition limited to small areas with no systemic impact
- Dermatologist evaluation confirming resolved or stable condition
If childhood eczema was misinterpreted as a current condition, a dermatologist letter clarifying it resolved in early childhood can be the single document that secures your waiver.
This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →
Read Our Full Guide on Skin & Dermatology Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates skin & dermatology conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the skin & dermatology guide