D-dimer, quantitative (plasma)
This test measures the level of D-dimer, a protein fragment produced when blood clots break down. It helps assess whether you’re at risk of blood clots or have a condition like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
["D-dimer helps diagnose or rule out blood clots with a simple blood test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87984-1
- Short code
- T gondii DNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- T gondii DNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 doctor may order a D-dimer test to check for signs of abnormal blood clotting. Common reasons include investigating symptoms like leg swelling, chest pain, or unexplained shortness of breath, which could signal conditions like DVT or pulmonary embolism. It may also be used in patients with known clotting disorders or those undergoing certain treatments that affect blood clotting.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure D-dimer levels. This test is typically done in a lab and may take a few hours to complete, depending on the lab’s workflow.
What Do My Results Mean?
High levels of D-dimer often suggest recent clot formation, which can indicate conditions like DVT or pulmonary embolism. Low or normal levels usually mean there is little to no active clotting happening. However, a negative test does not definitively rule out a clot in all cases, so your doctor may recommend additional testing if needed.
What Are the Possible Risks?
The most common risk of a blood draw is a slight bruising, swelling, or discomfort at the site where the needle was inserted. Rarely, there may be a small risk of infection or excessive bleeding, though these are uncommon with proper medical procedures.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: D-dimer plays a key role in diagnosing and managing blood clotting disorders. Elevated levels are strongly associated with active clot formation and can guide treatment decisions, such as anticoagulant therapy. However, it is not a standalone test for diagnosing clots—results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other tests.
Short name
D-dimer
Frequently asked questions
What does a high D-dimer level mean?
Can a low D-dimer level rule out blood clots completely?
How often should I get a D-dimer test?
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