fluoresceiinin

Fluorescein is a synthetic organic compound widely used as a fluorescent dye. Its chemical formula is C20H12O5. It is a xanthene dye and is soluble in water and alcohol. When exposed to light, particularly in the blue spectrum, fluorescein absorbs energy and then re-emits it as visible light at a longer wavelength, typically in the green-yellow range. This property of fluorescence makes it highly useful in various scientific and medical applications.

One of the primary uses of fluorescein is in ophthalmology. Fluorescein angiography is a diagnostic technique where fluorescein dye is injected into a vein, usually in the arm. As the blood circulates, the dye travels to the blood vessels in the retina and choroid of the eye. A special camera then captures images as the dye passes through these vessels, highlighting any abnormalities, leaks, or blockages. This helps diagnose conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal vein occlusions.

Beyond medical imaging, fluorescein finds application in microscopy as a tracer. It can be conjugated to antibodies or other biomolecules to track their location and movement within cells or tissues. It is also used in environmental studies to trace water flow in rivers and underground systems, and in some industrial leak detection processes due to its vivid fluorescence. The dye is generally considered safe for medical use, though allergic reactions are possible. Its bright, easily detectable fluorescence makes it an invaluable tool across numerous disciplines.