Fluoresenssiväriangiografia

Fluoresenssiväriangiografia, often abbreviated as FAG, is a diagnostic imaging technique used primarily in ophthalmology to visualize the blood vessels in the retina and choroid of the eye. The procedure involves injecting a fluorescent dye, typically sodium fluorescein, into a vein in the patient's arm. As the dye circulates through the bloodstream and reaches the eye, a specialized camera captures a series of high-speed photographs. The dye's fluorescence allows subtle changes in the retinal and choroidal vasculature to become apparent, which would otherwise be invisible.

The images generated by fluoresenssiväriangiografia are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of eye conditions. These include diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vein occlusions, and choroidal neovascularization. The dye highlights areas of leakage, blockage, or abnormal new blood vessel growth. For instance, in diabetic retinopathy, FAG can reveal microaneurysms and areas of non-perfusion. In AMD, it helps identify the presence and extent of choroidal neovascularization, which is a key factor in determining treatment options.

The procedure is generally well-tolerated, although some patients may experience temporary side effects such as nausea or yellowing of the skin and urine due to the dye. The interpretation of fluoresenssiväriangiografia images requires specialized training and is performed by ophthalmologists. Despite the development of newer imaging modalities, FAG remains a valuable tool in the diagnostic armamentarium for many retinal diseases due to its ability to provide detailed functional information about the ocular vasculature.