This test is usually done to diagnose eye disorders and abnormalities. Your doctor may recommend this test to confirm a diagnosis, determine the appropriate treatment, or to examine the retinal vessels and their blood supply.
Angiography is commonly used to diagnose the following eye problems:
Macular edema (swelling of a part of the retina that causes vision problems)
Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retinal vessels due to diabetes or abnormal blood vessels)
Macular degeneration due to aging
Blockage of blood vessels in the eye
Macular retraction (wrinkling of part of the retina due to fluid buildup behind it)
Eye cancer
Fluorescein angiography is also used to follow changes in eye disease over time and determine the extent of treatment.
How is an angiography performed?
The entire angiography procedure takes less than half an hour. First, pupil-dilating drops are placed in the patient's eyes. After the pupils dilate, a harmless dye called fluorescein is injected into the arm vein. In the first 10 to 15 seconds after injection, the fluorescein dye travels throughout the body's blood vessels and reaches the retinal vessels, causing them to glow.
When the fluorescent dye reaches the retinal vessels, a special camera takes pictures of them. These images help the doctor identify retinal abnormalities and target areas for treatment.
Post-angiography care
The effects of the pupil-dilating drops last for several hours and can cause blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Remember to bring sunglasses and have someone with you to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive after the angiography.
Side Effects
The most common reaction to the dye injection is nausea and vomiting. This is temporary and goes away with a few deep breaths. Dry mouth, increased salivation, increased heart rate, and sneezing may also occur. When you look at objects, they may appear blurry or have a specific tint. This side effect goes away within a few minutes.
After angiography, the skin of the body will turn yellow for a few hours. The color of the urine will also turn deep yellow or orange for 24 hours, and drinking plenty of fluids is recommended.
Although rare, it is possible that you will have an allergic reaction to the fluorescein dye. People who are allergic to the dye may develop hives or itchy skin, which can be relieved by taking an antihistamine by injection or by mouth. Rarely, a person may have breathing problems or other serious problems.
Note: Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications or supplements before having an angiography. If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, you will not be allowed to have an angiogram.