Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What are the types of abnormal hyperfluorescence?

1. Choroidal, retinal, leakage, staining

2. Staining, leakage, pooling, transmission

3. Pooling, capillary, pooling, staining

4. Transmissive, viral, bacterial, staining

The correct answer is: Staining, leakage, pooling, transmission

The correct response identifies types of abnormal hyperfluorescence as staining, leakage, pooling, and transmission. Each of these categories reflects different mechanisms and characteristics regarding abnormal fluorescence observed during ophthalmic examinations, particularly in fluorescein angiography. Staining refers to areas where the dye has adhered to the retinal or choroidal tissues, resulting in an increased fluorescence signal. This is often seen in conditions where the blood-retinal barrier is disrupted, allowing the dye to accumulate. Leakage describes the abnormal outflow of fluorescein dye from blood vessels into the surrounding tissues, resulting in well-defined areas of increased fluorescence on imaging. This can occur in diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or choroidal neovascularization. Pooling indicates the accumulation of fluorescein in specific areas, often due to underlying pathology affecting the drainage or absorption mechanisms of the retina. It can reflect localized vascular changes or blockages, providing insight into the status of retinal health. Transmission abnormality involves changes in the way light is transmitted through the ocular structures, which can affect how fluorescein appears on imaging. Though this term is slightly less common in general discussions of hyperfluorescence, it relates to how structures may alter the appearance of fluorescence. Each of these types addresses