Fluorescein angiography is an imaging test that visualises retinal and choroidal circulation using intravenous fluorescein dye and rapid-sequence photographs. It helps diagnose many retinal and vascular conditions.
What it shows
The dye highlights areas of leakage, blockage, or abnormal vessels.
- Capillary non-perfusion in diabetic retinopathy or vein occlusion
- Choroidal neovascular membranes in macular degeneration or POHS
- Vasculitis, microaneurysms, and telangiectasia
- Window defects from retinal pigment epithelium atrophy
Safety and alternatives
The procedure is generally safe but not risk-free.
- Common side effects include transient nausea and yellow skin/urine
- Rarely, allergic or anaphylactic reactions may occur
- Indocyanine green angiography and OCT angiography provide complementary information
- Used selectively when results will influence management
