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Adverse reactions during retinal fluorescein angiography
1Vitreo-Retinal Foundation, Memphis, TN 38120.
Summary
Fast sequence retinal fluorescein angiography is a safe diagnostic test, with nausea and urticaria being the most common adverse reactions. While serious anaphylaxis is rare, preparedness for such events is advised.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Fast sequence retinal fluorescein angiography is a common optometric diagnostic tool.
- The procedure generally has a low incidence of serious adverse reactions.
- This study aimed to document adverse reactions in a large patient cohort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of adverse reactions associated with fast sequence retinal fluorescein angiography.
- To evaluate the safety profile of this diagnostic procedure in an optometric setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 1,173 patient charts.
- Patients received intravenous sodium fluorescein (500 mg).
- Adverse reactions were recorded from patient charts.
Main Results:
- Nausea (0.8%) and urticaria (0.6%) were the most frequent adverse events.
- Other reported reactions included emesis and hypoglycemia.
- Dye extravasation occurred in 0.2% of patients; no acute anaphylaxis was observed.
Conclusions:
- Fast sequence retinal fluorescein angiography is a relatively safe diagnostic procedure.
- Clinicians should maintain preparedness for potential acute anaphylaxis, despite its rarity.
- The study highlights the importance of safety protocols in diagnostic angiography.
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