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Fibrinogen concentration (serum/plasma)

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 your blood clot properly and supports wound healing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74613-1
Short code
VLCFA C24:0 Fib-mCnt
Synonyms
VLCFA C24:0 Fib-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test to check for bleeding disorders, clotting problems, or to monitor conditions like liver disease, where fibrinogen production can be affected. It may also be used before surgery to ensure adequate clotting function or to evaluate responses to treatments for clotting disorders.

What to Expect During the Test

A small needle will be used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process usually takes just a few minutes. No special preparation is needed, but let your doctor know if you’re on blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder.

Common Conditions Monitored

High levels of fibrinogen might be seen in conditions like inflammation, infections, or certain cancers. Low levels can indicate bleeding disorders, liver disease, or medications that thin the blood. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

What the Results Mean

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges here, as they vary by lab and patient factors. Your doctor will discuss what your individual result means for you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fibrinogen Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high fibrinogen levels?
High fibrinogen levels can be caused by inflammation, infections, certain cancers, or even stress. Your doctor may also check for underlying conditions like liver disease or metabolic disorders.
What causes low fibrinogen levels?
Low fibrinogen levels may result from liver disease (since the liver produces fibrinogen), bleeding disorders, or medications that thin the blood. Rarely, it can be genetic or due to severe infections.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment plan. Follow-up may be needed if you have a condition that affects fibrinogen levels, such as liver disease or a clotting disorder.
  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