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Fluorescein angiography

• Overview
• Risks
• Results

Definition:

Fluorescein angiography is an eye test that uses an orange-colored, fluorescent dye (fluorescein), and a special camera, to take pictures and analyze the blood circulation in the retina and choroid .

Alternative Names:

Retinal photography; Eye angiography

How the test is performed:

Mydriatic eye drops (drops that make the pupil dilate) are administered. The chin is placed on a chin rest, and the forehead against a support bar to keep the head still during the test.

Photographs of the inside of the eye are taken. Then, dye is injected into a vein, usually at the bend of the elbow (the antecubital vein).

As the dye is injected, a series of photographs are taken. Afterwards, the needle is removed and pressure is applied to the injection site for several minutes.

More photographs are taken up to 20 minutes after the injection.

Allergy to the dye is rare, but may occur. A history of allergies will be taken before the test.

How to prepare for the test:

Arrange for transportation because your vision may be blurred up to 12 hours after the test. The health care provider may instruct you to discontinue drugs that could affect the test. You must sign an informed consent form. You must remove contact lenses before the test. Tell the health care provider if you have a hypersensitive reaction to iodine. Tell the health care provider if you may be pregnant.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted, a small amount of pain or stinging may be felt. When the dye is injected, mild nausea and a warm sensation may be experienced. These symptoms are usually very brief.

Why the test is performed:

This test is useful in determining if there is proper circulation in the retinal vessels. It can also be performed to diagnose or follow treatment of problems in the eye.

References:

Yanoff M, Duker JS, Augsburger JJ, et al. eds. Ophthalmology . 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004:800-805.

Singh AD, Rundle PA, Rennie I. Retinal vascular tumors. Ophthalmol Clin North Am . 2005 Mar;18(1):167-76, x.

• Review Date: 8/11/2005
• Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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