Macula is central part of retina where sharpest image is formed. Sometimes macula accumulates fluid probably because of some dysfunction in the retinal pigment epithelium or the outer layer of retina. The cells in this layer are responsible for fluid inflow and outflow of fluid in the retina. Dysfunction of these cells leads to swelling in these cells; and patients usually experience a slight drop in vision and loss of central clarity. The vision quantity-wise may be good enough but the quality is little hampered. It usually affects one eye and the patient needs to be seen by a retinal surgeon.

In some cases a test called FFA (fundus fluorescein angiography) may be needed to confirm the diagnosis, which may show leakage in the macular area.

FFA is most commonly used in diabetic retinopathy, ARMD, Choroiditis, Chorioretinitis, Central Serous Retinopathy, Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion, Retinal Tumors, Macular Edema, Clinically Significant Macular Edema and Cystoid Macular Edema. Also when we are not sure whether there are new vessels or not or there are certain lesions in retina, which are not easily picked up by the naked eye then FFA helps us to pickup those lesions very easily. It also becomes a permanent record and we can use these photographs to compare the patient's progression, regression and the treatment response. Repeat FFA can be compared to see the changes over a period of time.

Since the dye is injected, history of any allergy in the past is important. Though it is extremely rare, some patients while undergoing angiogram may have nausea or vomiting or some kind of pain in the hand, but these are very simple side effects without any long-term adverse effects. The serious reactions are extremely rare. Patient would have yellow colored discoloration of urine for about a day or so because the dye is excreted by kidney in the urine.

Fundus	Fundus Fluorescein

The treatment generally is 'NO treatment'. These patients just need to be observed, reassured and regular follow-up is necessary. This condition is usually benign and subsides in a few weeks. In some cases, the disease may recur after a few months or a few years, but even then the treatment is again observation and reassurance. In rare cases laser may be required to prevent the leakage.