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Fibrinogen (Serum or Plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of fibrinogen in your blood, a protein essential for blood clotting.

Quick summary

["Fibrinogen helps your blood clot properly and supports wound healing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74616-4
Short code
DMA 18:0/C18:0 Fib
Synonyms
DMA 18:0/C18:0 Fib
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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 doctor may order a fibrinogen test to check for bleeding disorders, clotting problems, or to monitor conditions like liver disease, where fibrinogen production can be affected. It may also be used before surgery to assess your risk of excessive bleeding.

What to Expect Before the Test

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

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare provider will clean the area, insert a needle, and collect blood into a tube. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test usually takes a few minutes.

What Are the Results?

Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or grams per liter (g/L). Low levels may suggest bleeding disorders or liver issues, while very high levels could indicate inflammation or other conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fibrinogen

Frequently asked questions

What causes low fibrinogen levels?
Low fibrinogen can result from liver disease (since the liver produces it), severe infections, blood loss, or certain medications. It may also appear in conditions like DIC, where the body forms clots uncontrollably.
What causes high fibrinogen levels?
High fibrinogen is often seen in inflammation (e.g., infections, autoimmune diseases), pregnancy, or certain cancers. It can also be a normal response to stress or injury.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, or treatment plan. Follow-up tests may be scheduled if you have ongoing bleeding, clotting issues, or related symptoms.
  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