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Fetal Fibrinogen Degradation Products (D-Dimer) in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures the breakdown products of fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. High levels may indicate recent clotting activity or conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Quick summary

["Helps assess blood clot risks and diagnose clotting disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11873-7
Short code
Fet FL/HC der US
Synonyms
Fet FL/HC der US
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-derived
CPT
83002
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 This Test Matters for Blood Clots

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like leg swelling, chest pain, or unexplained shortness of breath. It can also help monitor blood clotting disorders or after treatments like anticoagulants.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken and analyzed to detect D-Dimer fragments. These fragments appear when fibrin breaks down after clotting, so elevated levels suggest recent clotting activity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about recent injuries, surgeries, or medications that affect clotting. Avoid vigorous exercise 24 hours before testing.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Low or normal levels usually mean no recent clotting activity. High levels may prompt further testing (like imaging) to check for clots. Your doctor will discuss results and next steps with you.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: D-Dimer in Diagnosis and Monitoring

Short name

D-Dimer (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high D-Dimer level mean?
A high D-Dimer level often signals recent blood clotting, but it’s not definitive. It’s commonly used to rule out conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism when combined with other tests and symptoms.
Can D-Dimer levels change with medications?
Yes, certain blood-thinning medications (like warfarin or heparin) can lower D-Dimer levels. Your doctor may adjust your treatment based on these results.
Is this test safe?
Yes, this is a simple blood test with minimal risks. Rarely, you might feel slight discomfort from the needle, but complications are uncommon.
  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