Applications of fundus autofluorescence and widefield angiography in clinical practice

Abstract

Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and widefield angiography (WFA) are relatively new imaging modalities becoming ubiquitous in many clinical practices. FAF uses the properties and distribution of retinal pigment to improve understanding of the pathophysiology of retinal diseases. Clinical applications of FAF continue to expand. It is noninvasive, and available on multiple platforms for clinicians. From monitoring progression of common diseases such as macular degeneration to evaluating drug toxicities, it has become a clinically important imaging modality in evaluating retinal disease. Similarly, fluorescein angiography has been useful in elucidating retinal vascular diseases not clearly evident by funduscopic examination alone. However, visualization of the peripheral retina with WFA has drastically improved ophthalmic providers' abilities to screen, diagnose, monitor, and treat various retinal vascular diseases. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the role of FAF and WFA in common clinical practice, as well as limitations providers should be aware.