D-Dimer
D-Dimer test measures protein fragments from blood clot breakdown to screen for thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and blood clotting disorders.
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What this test measures
D-Dimer is a protein fragment produced when blood clots break down in the body. When individuals experience injury, their body naturally forms blood clots through a process called hemostasis to prevent excessive bleeding. Fibrin strands help hold these clots in place until healing occurs, and once the injury heals, the blood clot breaks into small fragments called D-dimer that dissolve in the bloodstream.
The D-Dimer test is primarily used as a screening tool to help healthcare providers assess whether abnormal blood clotting may be occurring. This test has high sensitivity but low specificity, making it particularly valuable for ruling out blood clotting disorders when results are normal. Healthcare providers often use D-Dimer testing to help diagnose or rule out conditions related to abnormal clotting, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals experiencing symptoms that may suggest deep vein thrombosis, such as unexplained swelling, pain, or tenderness in the legs, particularly when these symptoms occur suddenly or worsen over time.
- Those with suspected pulmonary embolism who may be experiencing symptoms like sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, or coughing that cannot be explained by other conditions.
- Patients being evaluated for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), particularly those with underlying conditions such as severe infection, trauma, or certain cancers that can trigger this serious clotting disorder.
- Individuals with risk factors for blood clots, including recent surgery, prolonged immobilization, pregnancy, hormone therapy, certain medications, or a personal or family history of clotting disorders.
- People seeking to rule out blood clotting disorders when other clinical assessments suggest a low to moderate probability of thrombotic disease, as this test is most effective when used in conjunction with clinical evaluation.
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the D-Dimer test. Fasting is not necessary, and individuals can maintain their normal diet and activities before testing. It may be helpful to inform healthcare providers about any medications being taken, particularly blood thinners or anticoagulants, as these may affect interpretation of results.
Sample Type
The D-Dimer test requires a simple blood draw from a vein, typically from the arm. The sample is collected in a special tube containing sodium citrate to preserve the blood for coagulation testing.
Collection
At the lab location, a trained phlebotomist will clean the injection site and insert a needle to draw blood into the collection tube. The process typically takes just a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort. The collected sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-2 business days after the laboratory receives the sample. Results will be provided through the secure online portal, with no doctor visit required to receive or interpret the basic findings.
Understanding your results
There are several different methods for testing D-dimer levels, so there is no single universal normal range, and results will indicate whether levels are normal, low, high, positive, or negative. Normal, low, or negative D-dimer levels typically suggest that blood clotting disorders are unlikely.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | Less than 500 ng/mL (or 0.5 mg/L FEU) | Normal range may vary by laboratory and testing method used |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low, negative, or normal D-dimer levels typically indicate that significant blood clotting disorders are unlikely to be present. A normal D-dimer result has approximately a 95% negative predictive value for ruling out acute pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis when there is low or moderate pretest probability. For individuals previously diagnosed with disseminated intravascular coagulation who are undergoing treatment, normal or low levels may suggest that treatment is working effectively.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated D-dimer levels may indicate the presence of a blood clotting condition, but this does not guarantee that a clot is present. Higher levels can suggest conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or disseminated intravascular coagulation. However, many other conditions can also cause elevated D-dimer levels, including pregnancy, recent surgery, trauma, liver disease, inflammation, and certain medications. Additional testing is typically needed to confirm or rule out specific clotting disorders when D-dimer levels are elevated.
Privacy & confidentiality
All D-Dimer test results are completely confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are not shared with your personal physician unless you choose to share them, are not added to your medical records, and do not appear on insurance statements or explanations of benefits.
Frequently asked questions
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CPT Code: 85378
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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