Geographical atrophy
We can document the size and edges of atrophic areas in dry AMD.
Visualising signs of metabolic activity in the retina
Fundus autofluorescence (FAF)
Fundus autofluorescence uses the natural fluorescence of metabolic products in the retinal pigment epithelium. No dye injection is needed. It reveals characteristic patterns in retinal and macular disease.
Understanding the procedure
Natural fluorescence instead of an injected dye.
Short-wavelength light stimulates naturally occurring molecules at the back of the eye. The fluorescence returned is displayed in greyscale or false colour.
Light and dark areas may reflect altered metabolism, deposits, shadowing or pigment epithelium loss. Their meaning depends on the disease and comparison with OCT, fundus images and follow-up.
- Procedure
- Autofluorescence without injection
- Contact
- Non-contact
- pupil dilation
- often useful
- Target structure
- Retinal pigment epithelium
Used where needed
What is FAF used for?
Typical patterns support diagnosis and follow-up.
Inherited retinal conditions
Some dystrophies have characteristic patterns that guide further investigations.
Inflammatory changes
Active and past disease processes may produce different patterns of autofluorescence.
Medication-related toxicity
For certain medicines, FAF complements OCT and functional tests when monitoring treatment.
Step by step
How a FAF image is taken
The examination is similar to taking a retinal photograph.
Preparing the pupils
The pupil may be dilated depending on the device and clinical question.
Keeping your gaze steady
Look at the target light while the device records the required retinal area.
Check Signal
We check focus, lighting, eyelid shadows and clouding.
Compare Patterns
We interpret FAF alongside colour photographs, OCT, previous images and clinical findings.
Understanding the results
Light and dark areas are not diagnoses on their own.
Increased autofluorescence has several possible causes. Reduced signals may reflect tissue loss or shadowing. We therefore relate the pattern to the retinal layer and clinical findings.
Its greatest value is often in follow-up: comparable images show stability, changes in size or new areas at the edges.
Well prepared
How to prepare for your visit
- usually no special preparation
- Arrange a lift home if your pupils will be dilated
- Bring previous retinal images
- Medication list for toxicity monitoring
Frequently asked questions
Clear, concise answers.
Will a dye be injected?
No. FAF uses the natural fluorescence of structures at the back of the eye.
Is FAF the same as fluorescein angiography?
No. Angiography uses injected dye to show vessel filling and leakage. FAF records the pigment epithelium’s natural fluorescence patterns.
Why do I also need an OCT scan?
OCT locates changes within individual retinal layers, adding detail to the broader FAF pattern.
Medical note
This page cannot replace an eye examination. Your symptoms, history and findings determine which tests are useful and how their results should be interpreted.
Medical basics
Sources and further information.
Related topics
All non-surgical eye care services