Fluorescein angiography is a photographic test performed to examine the retina at the back of your eyes using a special camera and taking multiple, serial photographs, coupled with a small injection of a special fluorescein dye into a vein in your arm. This test provides the doctors with necessary information about the retina and underlying tissues and is used to diagnose certain eye conditions and determine treatment plans.
Most patients who undergo fluorescein angiogram do not experience significant side effects. Approximately one in every twenty patients may feel slightly nauseous or light-headed for about 20 seconds as the dye circulates. In all cases, the dye eventually gets excreted through the kidneys, so bright orange/yellow urine will be passed during the next 24 hours or more. Very rarely patients can develop a transient itchy rash, which usually lasts for about an hour. Severe allergic reactions such as vomiting, asthma and anaphylaxis are rare. Heavy use of the injected arm should be avoided for a few hours following fluorescein angiography.