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Serum or Plasma Dextran Degradation Index (Dextran Dexa)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how your blood breaks down a synthetic sugar (dextran) over time, which can help assess certain blood clotting or vascular function conditions.

Quick summary

["This test may be used to evaluate blood flow and clotting responses in specific medical scenarios."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26123-0
Short code
Deprecated Femur-R DEXA
Synonyms
Deprecated Femur-R DEXA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-dexa
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test involves introducing a synthetic sugar (dextran) into your bloodstream and observing how it degrades over time. This process reflects how your blood vessels and clotting mechanisms interact. The result is expressed as an index that compares the breakdown rate to a baseline or reference value.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions that suggest abnormal blood flow, such as vascular diseases, certain clotting disorders, or reactions to medications that affect blood vessels.

Preparation

No special preparation is typically required, but follow your provider’s instructions if you’re taking medications that might affect blood tests.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The test may also involve monitoring changes over time, such as repeated blood draws or continuous monitoring in a clinical setting.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Dextran Degradation Index

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may recommend it if you have symptoms like unusual bruising, swelling, or vascular-related issues, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like vascular disease or certain clotting disorders.
What do the results mean?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and symptoms. Abnormal findings may suggest issues with blood vessel function or clotting, but this test’s role is limited compared to newer diagnostic tools.
Are there risks or side effects?
The most common side effect is mild pain or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a reaction to the dextran substance itself, though this is uncommon with modern testing protocols.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy