Fluorescein Angiography (FFA)

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Fluorescein angiography (FFA) is a series of photographs of the back of the eye taken after a yellow dye is injected into a vein in the arm. As the dye flows through the retinal blood vessels, it shows leaks, blockages and abnormal new vessels, helping to plan laser or injection treatment.

Before the test

• Tell us if you have had a reaction to dye before, have allergies or asthma, kidney disease, heart problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Eat lightly and take your usual medicines.
• Your pupils will be dilated, so bring someone to drive you home.

During the test

1. A small needle is placed in a vein in your hand or arm.
2. You rest your chin on the camera. A few photos are taken, then the dye is injected over a few seconds.
3. Photos are taken with bright flashes for about 5 to 10 minutes, with a few more later.

Afterwards

• Your skin may look slightly yellow for a few hours and your urine will be bright yellow-orange for up to 24 to 48 hours. This is normal.
• Drink plenty of water to flush the dye out.
• Some people feel brief nausea during the injection; it passes quickly.

Risks

Most people have no problems. Nausea, itching or a rash occur in a few people. Severe allergic reactions are very rare, and the clinic is equipped to treat them. A sister test, ICG angiography, uses a green dye and is used for some choroid conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Related: OCT Angiography for Early Diabetic Retinopathy, Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Ahmedabad, Retina Treatment in Ahmedabad.

This leaflet gives general information and does not replace advice from your own eye doctor. Reviewed by Dr. Dhaval Patel, MD (Ophthalmology, AIIMS New Delhi), November 2026.