Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What are some contraindications for retinal fluorescein angiography?

1. Diabetes, hypertension, pregnancy

2. Pregnancy, a previous history of reaction, multiple allergies

3. Heart disease, neurological disorders

4. Age over 60, vision impairment

The correct answer is: Pregnancy, a previous history of reaction, multiple allergies

Retinal fluorescein angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the blood vessels in the retina, and it's critical to recognize certain contraindications to ensure patient safety. Among the contraindications, a history of previous adverse reactions to fluorescein dye and multiple allergies are significant concerns. Fluorescein dye can provoke allergic reactions; thus, if a patient has experienced a reaction in the past, proceeding with the angiography poses a higher risk of another reaction occurring. Moreover, multiple allergies can indicate a potentially heightened sensitivity to various substances, making it prudent to avoid the procedure. While the conditions mentioned in other options may impact the patient's overall health or complicate the procedure, they do not categorically contraindicate the use of fluorescein angiography in the same way that a known previous history of reaction or multiple allergies does. This is why option B is the most pertinent choice regarding contraindications for retinal fluorescein angiography.