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Fibrinogen (Quantitative) – Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of fibrinogen, a protein in your blood that helps form blood clots. It’s important for preventing excessive bleeding and is sometimes checked after injuries or surgeries.

Quick summary

["Fibrinogen helps control bleeding by aiding clot formation; low levels may increase bleeding risk, while high levels may raise clot formation risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42172-7
Short code
Deprecated Tib+Fib-L XR port
Synonyms
Deprecated Tib+Fib-L XR port
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
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting blood clotting, such as liver disease, DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation), or certain blood disorders. It can also be checked before surgeries or procedures to assess bleeding risk.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low fibrinogen may signal liver issues, bleeding disorders, or severe infections. High levels could indicate inflammation, clotting disorders, or certain cancers.

Common Conditions Monitored

Fibrinogen is often checked in patients with suspected bleeding disorders, liver disease, or those receiving blood-thinning treatments. It can also help evaluate responses to treatments like anticoagulants.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Fibrinogen’s Role in Health

Short name

Fibrinogen Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low fibrinogen levels?
Low fibrinogen can result from liver disease (where production is impaired), severe infections, blood loss, or conditions like DIC. It may also appear in some cancers or after trauma.
What causes high fibrinogen levels?
High fibrinogen is often seen in inflammation (e.g., infections, autoimmune diseases), certain cancers, or after surgeries. It can also be a normal response to stress or pregnancy.
Is this test painful?
The blood draw itself is mild discomfort (like a pinch) for a few seconds. Most people feel little to no pain afterward. If you’re anxious, ask about numbing cream or other options.
  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