Fluorescein angiography of the eye
fluorescein angiography · FA eye test · retinal angiography · eye blood vessel imaging
A dye is injected into a vein in your arm, and it reaches the blood vessels of your eye in seconds. A camera takes a series of photos of the retina.
For diabetes, retina and eye blood vessel conditions, and before laser or eye injections.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes with preparation; the doctor explains the result afterward
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Getting there. Your pupils will be widened, so you cannot drive afterward.
- Medicines. Do not stop your regular medicines on your own.
- Food. You can usually have a light meal, unless the clinic says otherwise.
What to bring
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
- Sunglasses
- Someone to take you home
How it goes
- Your pupils are widened with drops
- A thin needle or IV line is placed in your arm
- You sit at the camera with your chin on a stand
- The dye is injected
- The camera takes many photos with bright flashes
- The needle is removed, and you are watched for a short while
What you'll feel
- A quick prick in the arm
- Bright flashes
- Sometimes nausea for a few seconds after the dye
- Your skin may look slightly yellow for a few hours
Afterwards
- Your urine will be bright yellow for up to 1 to 2 days. That is the dye leaving your body
- Drink your usual amount of water
- Do not drive until the drops wear off
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Rash, itching, facial swelling, or trouble breathing: call emergency services
- Severe pain or swelling where the needle went in
Common questions
Is it dangerous?
The dye is usually well tolerated. Serious reactions are rare, and help is on hand.
Why is my urine yellow?
That is the dye leaving your body. It usually clears in 1 to 2 days.