Skip to content

Fibrinogen (Plasma) 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. It helps assess your body’s ability to form clots and can indicate conditions affecting clotting or bleeding.

Quick summary

["Fibrinogen helps your blood clot properly and can signal bleeding or clotting disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37898-4
Short code
XR tomo Tib+Fib
Synonyms
XR tomo Tib+Fib
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomography
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 Is Done

Doctors may order a fibrinogen test to investigate symptoms like excessive bleeding, unusual bruising, or prolonged bleeding after injuries. It’s also used in monitoring conditions like liver disease, where fibrinogen production may be impaired, or in evaluating patients with clotting disorders like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., grams per liter). Low levels may suggest bleeding disorders or liver problems, while very high levels could indicate inflammation or certain clotting conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Affecting Fibrinogen

Conditions like liver disease, severe infections, or inflammatory disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) can lower fibrinogen. Conversely, some clotting disorders or pregnancy may raise it. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Fibrinogen Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal fibrinogen levels?
Abnormal fibrinogen levels can result from underlying medical conditions such as liver disease (reduced production), severe infections or inflammation (increased production), or clotting disorders (e.g., DIC). Medications like anticoagulants (blood thinners) can also affect fibrinogen levels.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition and treatment. Your doctor will determine if regular monitoring is needed—often for conditions like liver disease, bleeding disorders, or during pregnancy.
Can diet or lifestyle affect fibrinogen levels?
While diet and lifestyle factors like exercise or stress may influence overall health, they don’t directly alter fibrinogen levels. However, maintaining a balanced diet and managing chronic conditions can support overall blood health.
  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