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Fibrinogen (Serum) – Quantitative Measurement

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

This test measures the amount of fibrinogen, a protein in your blood that plays a key role in blood clotting. It helps assess your risk of bleeding or clotting disorders.

Quick summary

["Fibrinogen levels can indicate how well your blood clots normally."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55451-9
Short code
Deprecated FSP PPP
Synonyms
Deprecated FSP PPP
Category
coagulation
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate bleeding or clotting risks, diagnose conditions like liver disease (which affects protein production), or monitor treatments for conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). It can also help check for signs of inflammation or infection.

What Does a Low or High Level Mean?

Low fibrinogen levels may suggest bleeding disorders, liver disease, or severe infections. High levels could indicate inflammation, clotting disorders, or certain cancers. However, reference ranges vary by lab and may not apply to all individuals.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure fibrinogen concentration. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your provider’s instructions.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Factors like liver disease, infections, inflammation, or certain medications can affect fibrinogen levels. Genetic conditions or blood disorders may also play a role.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Fibrinogen

Frequently asked questions

What does a fibrinogen test measure?
This test measures the amount of fibrinogen, a protein in your blood that helps form clots. It’s often used to check for bleeding or clotting problems.
Can diet affect fibrinogen levels?
Dietary factors like high-fat or high-sugar foods may influence inflammation, which could indirectly affect fibrinogen levels. However, specific dietary changes are not typically recommended for this test alone.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab and healthcare provider’s processes.
  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