How do fluorescein and ICG angiography differ?
Fluorescein angiography is the best way to examine the blood vessels in the retina, but choroidal vessels are hidden beneath a layer of pigmented cells. ICG angiography is the best way to examine blood vessels in the choroid. The infrared light given off by ICG dye can be seen through the pigment layer. Unlike fluorescein, ICG requires a special computerized camera because regular camera film cannot “see” the ICG dye. Why is fluorescein angiography done? Most angiograms are done with fluorescein. After examining your eyes, the ophthalmologist may order angiography to: • help diagnose your condition • guide laser surgery with pinpoint accuracy • monitor the effect of laser surgery • follow the course of your condition. Fluorescein angiography is helpful in evaluating many eye conditions, including: • diabetic retinopathy • macular degeneration • retinal vein occlusions • macular edema Why is ICG angiography done? The most common reason to do an ICG angiogram is to detect abnormal choroi
