D-Dimer Test
Test Overview
A d-dimer test is a blood test that measures a substance that is released when a blood clot breaks up. Doctors order the d-dimer test, along with other lab tests and imaging scans, to help check for blood-clotting problems. A d-dimer test can also be used to check how well a treatment is working.
Doctors use the d-dimer test when a person might have a dangerous blood-clotting problem. These problems include:
- Deep vein thrombosis, Opens dialog, a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in the deep veins of the legs, pelvis, or arms.
- Pulmonary embolism, Opens dialog, a condition in which blood flow in an artery in the lung is suddenly blocked.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), Opens dialog, a condition that prevents a person's blood from clotting normally.
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
- A low or normal d-dimer test result means that there is very little of the substance that's released as a blood clot breaks up. Having very little of this substance means that a blood clotting problem isn't likely.
- A higher-than-normal d-dimer level might mean that there is a blood-clotting problem. But a higher level might be caused by some other health problem or by a normal healing process.
- D-dimer levels are often higher than normal in people who have abnormal blood clotting.
Current as of: October 7, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: October 7, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
