D-dimer, plasma mass concentration

What Is D-dimer Used For?

D-dimer is primarily used to evaluate conditions involving blood clotting or clot breakdown. It can help rule out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (clots in the lungs) when combined with other tests. It may also assist in diagnosing conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), where the body forms clots throughout the bloodstream.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure D-dimer levels using a specialized immunoassay method. The test is typically done on plasma, the liquid part of blood without clotting factors.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order a D-dimer test if you have symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the legs, shortness of breath, or chest pain. It may also be used to check for bleeding disorders or to monitor certain medical conditions affecting blood clotting.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges as they can vary based on the test method and laboratory. High levels of D-dimer may suggest recent clot formation, while very low levels may indicate no active clotting activity.