D-dimer (serum/plasma, quantitative)
This test measures the level of D-dimer, a breakdown product of clotting factors that forms when blood clots dissolve. It helps assess whether you’re at risk of blood clots or clot-related complications.
["D-dimer helps identify potential blood clotting risks or clot removal processes in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63225-7
- Short code
- dsDNA IgG Fld Ql IF
- Synonyms
- dsDNA IgG Fld Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82784
- 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?
Doctors may order a D-dimer test to evaluate symptoms like unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, or unexplained bruising. It’s also used to diagnose conditions like deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in veins) or pulmonary embolism (clots in the lungs).
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. The test is quick and usually done in a lab setting. Avoid strenuous activity or eating heavy meals 24 hours before the test if instructed by your provider.
What the Results Mean
High levels of D-dimer may suggest recent clot formation or conditions like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or certain cancers. Low or normal levels usually mean no significant clotting activity. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used alongside other tests to diagnose or rule out blood clots, inflammation, or other clotting disorders. It can also help monitor conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), where the body forms clots in small blood vessels throughout the body.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: D-dimer plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing blood clotting disorders. Elevated levels often indicate active clot formation, guiding treatment decisions such as anticoagulant therapy. However, false positives can occur in conditions like pregnancy, cancer, or severe infections, so results should always be reviewed by a healthcare provider.
Short name
D-Dimer
Frequently asked questions
What causes a high D-dimer level?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long does it take to get 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