This page sets out to answer some of the most common questions asked by patients. We hope you will find it helpful.
What is Fluorescein Angiography?
Fluorescein Angiography is a test which can help to find out if there are any problems with the blood circulation in the eyes. If a problem is identified, it will help the doctor to decide on the best treatment.
What does the test involve?
The test is carried out by the medical photographer. Drops are instilled to enlarge the pupils. This causes some temporary blurring of the vision, so you are advised not to drive yourself home after your apppointment. You will have to wait for at least half an hour for the drops to work.
You will then be seated at a camera in a darkened room and the photographer will take some photographs using a bright flash.
A doctor or qualified nurse will then inject a small quantity of fluorescein dye into a vein in your arm. The dye travels through the blood vessels and very quickly reaches the eye.
Fluorescein shows up under a blue light and the photographer immediately takes a rapid series of photographs using a blue flash.
No x-rays or radioactive materials are used and we do not need to touch your eyes at all to do the test. The whole procedure takes 10-15 minutes.
When will I know the results?
You will not be given the results of the test straight away. The films have to be developed and carefully studied. You
will probably be told the results at your next outpatient appointment although the results sometimes may take longer
than anticipated.
Are there any side effects?
The dye gives your skin a slight yellow tinge and your urine is coloured bright yellow which fades after one or two days. If you are diabetic, this colouring may temporarily confuse the results when you test it for sugar.
Most people feel no ill effects from the test apart from the blurring of vision caused by the drops and some dazzle
from the camera flash. A small number feel slightly sick but the feeling rarely lasts more than a few seconds. Serious side effects are rare.
Contact us
If you have any further concerns about this test, please contact
The Eye Nurses
Telephone: 01935 384309
