Ocular fundus fluorescein angiography (with intravitreal fluorescein)
This procedure involves injecting a fluorescent dye into your eye to examine blood flow and blood vessel health in the retina.
["A diagnostic test to check for retinal issues like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or other vascular problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79810-8
- Short code
- Study obs Ocular fund-L Angio W fluor IV
- Synonyms
- Study obs Ocular fund-L Angio W fluor 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
What Is This Test For?
Ocular fundus fluorescein angiography (OFFA) is used to visualize the blood vessels in your retina. A fluorescent dye (fluorescein) is injected into a vein in your arm, and a special camera captures images as the dye travels through your retinal blood vessels. This helps identify blockages, leaks, or abnormal growths that may indicate conditions like diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, or age-related macular degeneration.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
You’ll lie down with your eyes dilated (using drops to widen them) and a small needle inserted into your arm for the dye injection. A camera will take images while the dye circulates through your eyes. You may experience mild discomfort from the needle and light sensitivity during imaging.
Preparation and Risks
No special preparation is needed, but avoid wearing contact lenses for 24 hours before the test. Rare risks include allergic reactions to the dye or temporary vision changes. Your doctor will discuss any concerns before the procedure.
What to Expect After the Test
You may see a greenish tint in your vision for a short time after the dye is injected. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision returns to normal. Mild eye redness or discomfort is common but should resolve quickly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps detect early signs of retinal diseases that can lead to vision loss. By identifying vascular abnormalities, doctors can plan treatments like laser therapy, injections, or lifestyle changes to preserve vision and prevent progression.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the procedure take?
Will I feel any pain during the test?
Can I drive after this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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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