Fluorescein angiography (FA) is a diagnostic test which uses a special photosensitive dye to photograph the structures in the back of the eye. This test is very useful for finding leakage or damage to the blood vessels which nourish the retina (light sensitive tissue). Fluorescein is a yellow vegetable dye which glows in visible light.

In this test the colored vegetable dye is injected into a vein in the arm of the patient. The dye travels through the circulatory system and reaches the vessels in the retina and those of a deeper tissue layer called the choroid. The test does not involve the use of X-rays or harmful forms of radiation. The FA test begins with some color photos of the fudus being taken with a special digital camera. Then, a few black and white photos of the fundus are taken. Following this, the fluorescein dye is injected into the bloodstream. Immediately thereafter pictures are taken as the dye enters the eye. Over the course of about 8 minutes pictures are taken so that the transit of the dye in the eye's circulation can be examined.

Once the test is complete, the doctor will immediately come in and review the computer generated digital photos with the patient, render a diagnosis, and offer any available treatment options.