Fluorescein angiography is a critical diagnostic tool for evaluating dry eye syndrome. This technique provides a clear view of your tear film and corneal health, helping eye doctors tailor effective treatments for your comfort.
Fluorescein angiography for dry eye is a diagnostic technique that uses a special orange dye combined with blue light to examine the health of your eye’s outer surface. This test not only reveals issues with the tear film but also uncovers subtle damages to the cornea that may be related to dry eye syndrome. Understanding how this test works can help you feel more confident in the diagnostic process and the tailored treatment our eye doctors provide.
When evaluating patients with dry eye symptoms, our eye doctors sometimes use a method that might sound more familiar in retinal examinations to assess the tear film and anterior ocular surface. In the context of dry eye, fluorescein angiography is not about visualizing blood flow in the retina but instead is focused on staining the corneal surface to highlight gaps in tear film coverage and small abrasions or irregularities. This evaluation is essential because an even, healthy tear film is crucial for eye comfort and clear vision.
The procedure involves a very straightforward application of fluorescein dye. Typically, a piece of blotting paper impregnated with the dye is gently touched to the eye, although in some practices the dye comes as a drop that may also include an anesthetic. When you blink, the dye spreads uniformly across the tear film that covers your cornea, which comprises water, oil, and mucus—all of which serve to lubricate and protect your eye.
After the dye is applied, a blue light is shone on the eye. This light causes the fluorescein to fluoresce, making any irregularities in the tear film or areas of the cornea where the protective layer is compromised appear as a bright green stain. This visual contrast helps our eye doctors precisely identify where the tear film might be failing to protect the surface of the eye.
Contact us today to find a top optometrist near you who can provide a comprehensive fluorescein evaluation for your dry eye symptoms.
Fluorescein evaluation is a key part of the dry eye examination, as it reveals details about the tear film and corneal surface that other tests might miss. Here’s why it matters:
Before the test is performed, you will be asked to remove your eyeglasses or contact lenses because these might interfere with the accurate deposition of the dye. Once the dye is applied, you might notice a mild stinging sensation—especially if your eyes are very dry—though this is typically brief. Some patients describe the feeling as a slight scratchiness from the blotting paper, which is temporary and fades as the dye is absorbed into the tear film.
During the evaluation, the blue light is directed at your eye, and the fluorescing dye paints a picture of how evenly the tear film covers the cornea. In a healthy eye, you will typically see a smooth, uniform green fluorescence that indicates a consistent tear film. In contrast, if there are areas of drop-out or punctate staining, these suggest that some parts of the cornea are not adequately protected, pointing toward a diagnosis of dry eye.
Contact us today to find a top optometrist near you who can provide a comprehensive fluorescein evaluation for your dry eye symptoms.
Fluorescein angiography is essential for assessing tear film and corneal health in dry eye syndrome. Schedule a consultation today!
