Fatal acute myocardial infarction after intravenous fluorescein angiography

Since its introduction, fluorescein angiography has been widely used to investigate diseases of the ocular fundus. A case of fatal acute myocardial infarction after intravenous fluorescein angiography is presented. This appears to be the first case documented by autopsy in which the findings are compatible with myocardial infarction as the cause of death. Although there are no known contraindications for fluorescein angiography in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, the indications for this elective procedure should be carefully reviewed in such patients. Adequate emergency resuscitation equipment should be available in the fluorescein angiography suite.