D-dimer (Substance Concentration, Plasma)
This test measures the level of D-dimer, a breakdown product of clotting proteins that forms when blood clots dissolve. It helps assess whether abnormal clotting or clot-dissolving processes are occurring in your body.
["D-dimer helps diagnose or rule out blood clots and other clotting disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63230-7
- Short code
- dsDNA IgG Titr CSF IF
- Synonyms
- dsDNA IgG Titr CSF IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a D-dimer test to check for signs of blood clots, especially in conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. It can also be used to evaluate bleeding disorders or to monitor treatment for clotting issues. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader evaluation for unexplained symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg swelling.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (typically in your arm) to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test, as it may affect results.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, insert a needle into your vein, and collect blood into a tube. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results can vary based on your health and medical history. A high D-dimer level often suggests recent clotting activity, while a low or normal level may indicate no active clotting. Your provider will interpret the result in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated D-dimer levels are commonly associated with conditions like venous thromboembolism (blood clots), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), or certain infections. However, false positives can occur in conditions like pregnancy, heart failure, or severe illness. Low levels are generally not concerning unless there’s a known bleeding disorder. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Short name
D-dimer
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have a blood clot?
Can food or medications affect this test?
What if my D-dimer is high?
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