Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What is the first phase of an angiogram indicative of?

1. Retinal arterial flow

2. Choroidal circulation

3. Capillary filling

4. Venous return

The correct answer is: Choroidal circulation

The first phase of an angiogram is indicative of choroidal circulation. In the context of ocular imaging, particularly during a fluorescein angiography, the injection of the dye initially fills the choroidal vessels due to their proximity to the injection point and the rapid passage of the dye through the highly vascular choroid. This phase reveals the integrity and flow of blood through the choroid, which is essential for the health of the retinal pigment epithelium and the outer layer of the retina. Observing the choroid's blood flow helps to identify any potential issues such as choroidal neovascularization or other vascular conditions affecting the posterior segment of the eye. Understanding this phase is crucial for identifying and diagnosing various ocular pathologies associated with choroidal health.