Fluorescein Angiography

Fluorescein angiography (FA) is a diagnostic procedure used in ophthalmology to visualize the blood circulation within the retina, choroid, and optic disc. It involves injecting fluorescein dye into a vein in the arm, which then travels through the bloodstream to the blood vessels in the eye. A special camera with filters that detect fluorescein's fluorescence is used to capture images as the dye circulates through the eye. FA helps in diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal vein occlusion. By highlighting abnormal blood vessels, leakage, or blockages, FA provides valuable information for treatment planning, especially in laser therapy or medication delivery directly to affected areas. Although generally safe, FA carries a small risk of allergic reactions to the dye and temporary discoloration of the skin and urine. However, its benefits in accurately assessing eye health outweigh these potential risks in most cases.