Fundus Fluorescein Angiography and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Findings in Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Edema

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy is an important public health issue as its prevalence has been increasing every year. It is one of the major causes of visual loss which can be preventable with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The fundus examination must be done in detail using mydriatics, and digital images must be recorded in all diabetic patients with special emphasis on the disease type (type I and type II), duration, and prognosis. Fluorescein angiography (FA) is a gold standard invasive retinal imaging technique for the diagnosis, monitoring, and evaluating the response of the treatment in diabetic patients, but FA has limitations due to possible side effects. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a recent, non-invasive, dye-free imaging technique that can be used in every visit. It has the capability to image all retinal and choroidal vascular layers (segmentation) and quantify macular ischemia in a short period of time which is beneficial for the patient, and the ophthalmologist. The aim of this review is to address the findings, advantages, and disadvantages of FA and OCTA in patients with diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.