Ocular fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) with observation
This test involves injecting a fluorescent dye into your bloodstream to examine blood flow in your retina and blood vessels of the eye. A special camera captures images as the dye travels through your eyes, helping doctors diagnose and monitor conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or retinal vein occlusion.
["Fluorescein angiography helps visualize blood flow in your retina to detect blockages, leaks, or abnormal growths in eye vessels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103571-6
- Short code
- Stdy obs Ocular fund Angio W fluoresc IV
- Synonyms
- Stdy obs Ocular fund Angio W fluoresc IV
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- angiography
- CPT
- 86430
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend fluorescein angiography to investigate symptoms such as sudden vision changes, persistent eye pain, or signs of eye disease (e.g., swelling, bleeding, or distorted vision). It’s also used before certain eye surgeries to assess blood vessel health.
How the Test Works
A dye (fluorescein) is injected into a vein in your arm. A special camera takes rapid images of your eyes as the dye circulates, highlighting blood vessels. You’ll need to stay still and avoid blinking during the procedure.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like blood thinners) or eye drops that could interfere with the test. Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you use them for the procedure.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down with your eyes exposed to the camera. The dye may cause a temporary warm or tingling sensation in your arm. Bright flashes of light may occur during imaging, but you’ll be given instructions to follow.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Fluorescein angiography is critical for diagnosing and managing retinal diseases. It reveals details about blood vessel health that other tests cannot, helping doctors plan treatments like laser therapy, injections, or surgery to preserve vision.
Short name
Fluorescein Angiography (Ocular)
Frequently asked questions
Will I feel pain during the test?
How long does the test take?
Can I drive after the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy