What type of imaging technique uses fluorescein to examine the retina?

Fluorescein angiography is a specialized imaging technique designed for evaluating the retinal and choroidal circulation. In this process, a fluorescent dye called fluorescein is injected into a vein, typically in the arm, after which a series of photographs are taken as the dye travels through the blood vessels in the retina. This allows for detailed views of the blood flow and can reveal abnormalities such as leaks or blockages in the retinal vessels, which are crucial for diagnosing various retinal conditions.

The use of fluorescein is what sets this technique apart from others; it enhances the visibility of blood vessels against the background of the retina. The images taken during fluorescein angiography are critical for identifying issues such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and other ocular diseases that affect the retina's health and function. Consequently, this technique is an essential tool in ophthalmology and optometry for clinicians to assess retinal health effectively.

In contrast, optical coherence tomography provides cross-sectional images of the retina but does not involve fluorescein. Ultrasonography uses sound waves to create images of the eye and does not visualize blood flow. Retinal photography captures static images of the retina without the dynamic assessment of blood flow offered by fluoresce