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Fibrinogen (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of fibrinogen, a protein in your blood that plays a key role in blood clotting.

Quick summary

["Fibrinogen helps prevent excessive bleeding by forming clots when injured."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3220-1
Short code
Fact X Ag PPP IA-aCnc
Synonyms
Fact X Ag PPP IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 healthcare provider may order this test to check for bleeding disorders, clotting problems, or conditions like liver disease, which can affect fibrinogen levels. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

What to Expect Before the Test

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

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but your actual values may vary slightly depending on the lab. Low levels might suggest bleeding disorders or liver issues, while very high levels could indicate inflammation or pregnancy.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or manage conditions like von Willebrand disease, hemophilia, or liver cirrhosis, where fibrinogen production may be disrupted.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Fibrinogen

Frequently asked questions

What causes low fibrinogen levels?
Low fibrinogen can result from liver disease, severe infections, pregnancy, or certain medications. It may also occur in conditions like DIC, where the body forms clots uncontrollably.
How is fibrinogen tested?
The test involves drawing blood from a vein. The sample is sent to a lab where fibrinogen levels are measured using a specialized method, often automated to provide results quickly.
Can diet affect fibrinogen levels?
Dietary factors like high vitamin K intake (from leafy greens) may influence clotting proteins, but fibrinogen itself isn’t directly affected by diet. Always follow your provider’s advice on test timing.
  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