How is fluorescein angiography conducted?

Fluorescein angiography is a diagnostic procedure that involves the injection of a fluorescent dye into a vein, typically in the arm. This dye travels through the bloodstream and reaches the blood vessels in the eye. Once the dye is in the retinal circulation, a special camera takes a series of images as the dye passes through the blood vessels in the retina. The properties of the fluorescein dye allow it to emit light when exposed to a specific wavelength, enabling visualization of the retinal blood vessels and any abnormalities.

This method is critical for diagnosing various retinal conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, and age-related macular degeneration. The choice of injecting the dye intravenously is crucial, as it allows for the capture of detailed images of the retinal circulation over time, providing valuable insights into the health of the retina.

The other methods listed are not utilized in fluorescein angiography. Placing dye on the cornea or injecting dye directly into the eye does not enable systemic circulation or provide the detailed imaging required for diagnosing retinal conditions. The application of a topical anesthetic would be a preparatory step rather than a component of the angiography itself, as the procedure primarily relies on the intravenous injection for effective imaging.