During your retinal examination, your doctor may order a fluorescein angiogram (FA). This test uses a special fluorescent dye which, when injected into your veins, travels through your bloodstream to the retina. The dye is visible in the retina through the camera lens using a special filter. Our retinal photographer will track the progress of the dye through the retinal vessels by taking a series of pictures over a period of several minutes. Your doctor will use these pictures to check the blood flow to the retina and also to diagnose any swelling in the retina, abnormal vessels, or any other retinal disorders. This test is frequently a part of the retinal exam for diabetics and those with macular degeneration. Fluorescein angiography uses a non-radioactive dye, which has very little if any side effects.                                              

This test is conducted using a digital photography system, and results are immediate and able to be viewed by physician and patient.