Fluorescein Angiography
Fluorescein Angiography
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. Is Fluorescein Angiography painful?
No, the procedure is not painful. You may feel a slight prick from the injection, and some patients experience temporary yellowing of the skin or a mild allergic reaction, but these symptoms subside quickly.
2. How long does the procedure take?
The entire procedure, including preparation, injection, and imaging, takes about 30 minutes.
3. What are the side effects of Fluorescein Angiography?
Common side effects include temporary yellowing of the skin or urine, slight nausea, and a warm sensation during the injection. Serious allergic reactions are rare.
What is Fluorescein Angiography?
Fluorescein Angiography is a procedure where a fluorescent dye is injected into the bloodstream to highlight the blood vessels in the retina. Special cameras are then used to capture images of the dye as it moves through the eye’s blood vessels, helping detect abnormalities such as blockages or leaks.
Causes: When is Fluorescein Angiography Needed?
Fluorescein Angiography is recommended for patients with suspected retinal disorders. Common conditions requiring FA include:
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Deterioration of the central part of the retina, leading to vision loss.
- Retinal Vein Occlusion: Blockage of veins carrying blood away from the retina.
- Choroidal Neovascularization: Abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina.
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea).
- Macular Edema: Swelling of the macula, which is the central area of the retina.
Early diagnosis through Fluorescein Angiography helps prevent vision loss and allows timely intervention.
Types of Fluorescein Angiography
- Standard Fluorescein Angiography (FA): This is the most commonly used method for diagnosing and monitoring retinal conditions.
- Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICGA): Sometimes performed alongside FA, ICGA uses a different dye to examine deeper layers of the retina and choroid.
Both methods provide a comprehensive view of the eye’s vascular health, ensuring a detailed diagnosis.
Symptoms: When Should You Consider Fluorescein Angiography?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, your ophthalmologist may recommend Fluorescein Angiography:
- Sudden vision loss or blurriness
- Dark spots or floaters in your vision
- Distortion in straight lines (metamorphopsia)
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Reduced central vision
- Visual disturbances or halos
Diagnosis: How is Fluorescein Angiography Performed?
Fluorescein Angiography is a quick and straightforward procedure:
- Preparation: The patient’s pupils are dilated with eye drops.
- Injection: A small amount of fluorescent dye is injected into a vein in the arm.
- Imaging: As the dye travels through the blood vessels of the eye, a specialized camera takes multiple images of the retina.
- Completion: The entire procedure typically takes 10 to 30 minutes.
The images are then analyzed to diagnose any abnormalities in the retinal blood vessels.
Treatment Options Following Fluorescein Angiography
Once your ophthalmologist has diagnosed a condition using Fluorescein Angiography, the following treatment options may be recommended:
- Laser Photocoagulation: Used to seal off leaking blood vessels or treat abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
- Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications injected into the eye to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels (commonly used in AMD).
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair or remove damaged retinal tissue.
- Monitoring: For mild conditions, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring with follow-up Fluorescein Angiography sessions.
Cost of Fluorescein Angiography and Treatment in India
India is one of the most affordable destinations for advanced eye treatments, including Fluorescein Angiography. The cost of FA can vary depending on the complexity of the diagnosis and treatment required.
- Average Cost of Fluorescein Angiography: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000
- Cost of Treatment (if required):
- Laser Treatment: ₹10,000 to ₹40,000
- Anti-VEGF Injections: ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per injection
- Surgery: Costs may vary based on the procedure type.