---
title: Fluorescein angiography
description: "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…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/diagnostics-testing/fluorescein-angiography/"
updated: "2025-12-17"
category: "Diagnostics & Testing"
---

# Fluorescein angiography

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