D-dimer antigen (serum/plasma concentration)
This test measures the amount of D-dimer in your blood, a protein fragment produced when certain blood clots break down. It helps assess whether you may be at risk for blood clots or conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
["D-dimer helps guide decisions about further testing for blood clot risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11013-0
- Short code
- dsDNA Ab Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- dsDNA Ab Titr Ser
- 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
What Is D-dimer Used For?
D-dimer is primarily used to evaluate the likelihood of existing or recent blood clots. It can help rule out conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism when combined with other clinical findings. It is not a standalone diagnostic test but supports diagnostic decisions alongside symptoms and imaging studies.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested for D-dimer levels using a sensitive immunoassay method. The test typically takes a few minutes to complete.
What Does a High or Low D-dimer Level Mean?
A high D-dimer level often suggests recent clot formation and may indicate conditions like DVT or pulmonary embolism. However, a high level can also occur in other situations, such as infection, inflammation, or pregnancy. A low D-dimer level usually means there is little to no recent clot activity.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order a D-dimer test if you have symptoms like leg swelling, pain, or shortness of breath, or if you have a higher risk for blood clots due to conditions like cancer, heart disease, or recent surgery.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: D-dimer plays a key role in diagnosing suspected blood clots. While it can help narrow down possibilities, it is not definitive on its own. Your provider will consider the test result alongside your medical history, symptoms, and other tests to make an accurate diagnosis.
Short name
D-dimer
Frequently asked questions
Why might my D-dimer test result be abnormal even if I don’t have a blood clot?
Can lifestyle changes affect my D-dimer levels?
How soon will I get my D-dimer test results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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