A diagnostic test to document the blood circulation of the Retina and Choroid using a contrast agent (Fluorescein Sodium) administered in the arm vein, followed by the dissemination of photographs to the fundus of the eye.

Preparation:

• Drops for dilation of the iris. These drops will be placed according to protocol or medical indication.
• Bring someone with you and do not drive after the exam.
• Bring sunglasses if possible.

Procedure:

• You will be accompanied by a nurse who will evaluate your vital signs and other relevant parameters, as well as make an assessment of the most relevant health aspects.
• The dye is usually injected into a vein in the arm, forearm, or hand.In very rare cases extravasation (outflow of the fluid out of the vein) may cause pain and inflammation at the injection site.
• During the sequence of photographs it is important to keep your head still and look at the indicated locations.
• You will always be accompanied during the entire examination and you can stay under surveillance for a few minutes.  

Warnings:

This test is contraindicated in patients with allergy (hypersensitivity) to Sodium fluorescein.

The patient should inform his / her doctor / nurse if:

• Have some heart disease;
• Use concomitant medication with beta-blockers or ophthalmic drops with beta- blockers;
• Personal history of allergy or bronchial asthma; Serious intolerance reactions occurred during a previous angiogram.

The placement of eye drops may temporarily affect (hours) your vision, resulting in sensitivity to light, difficulty in focusing, seeing clearly and assessing distances.

It is recommended that you do not drive after administration and wear sunglasses on the street.

It will be relevant to tell if you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, any allergies or if you are pregnant.

Due to the color of the dye, it is possible that the skin is put for 24 to 48 hours, disappearing after this period. The urine is also more yellowish for 24-36 hours, since the dye is excreted by the kidney and exits through the urine.

Possible side effects:

Although rare, there is always the possibility of side effects, with the following being described:

• Mild adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting and pruritus (in about 5% of cases);
• Moderate adverse reactions such as urticaria or fainting (in about 1% of cases);
• Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) (1 in 50,000 tests) that, very rarely, can be a extreme life-threatening situation (1 in 220,000 tests).