Fluorescein angiography is a technique used to assess blood circulation in the retina at the back of the eye.

What the test involves

When you come to London Eye Unit for fluorescein angiography, eye drops are used to dilate the pupil, which will blur your vision slightly. Fluorescein (a yellow dye) is injected into a vein in your arm and a series of photographs are taken with a blue light.

Side-effects

The dye gives your skin a slightly yellowish colour and your urine will be bright yellow for the next day or so. Other side-effects are rare but some people have an allergic reaction to the fluorescein, which may cause a skin rash or short term breathing difficulties. Patients with allergies such as asthma, eczema or a sea-food allergy may be more at risk of an allergic reaction.

Length of test

The test itself takes about 10 mins, however the drops need about ½ hr to work. You may also wish to rest for a while before leaving the clinic.