D Dimer Test- Why am I having this test?
D dimer test is used to help diagnose conditions that cause abnormal or excessive blood clotting, such as thrombosis or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
This test may also be used to monitor treatment for a blood clotting disease.
What kind of sample is taken?
A blood sample will be taken. Blood samples are usually collected by inserting a needle into a vein.
How do I prepare for this test?
There is no preparation required for this test.
What are the reference values?
Reference values are considered healthy values established after testing a large group of healthy people. The reference value for this test is <0.5 mcg/mL. Reference values may vary among different people, labs, and hospitals.
What do the results mean?
An elevated D-dimer test result may mean that you have a blood clotting condition, such as:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Pulmonary embolism (PE).
- DIC.
- Blood clot breakdown (primary fibrinolysis).
- Arterial thromboembolism.
- Sickle cell anemia.
D-dimer levels can also be elevated for other reasons, including:
- Recent surgery.
- Certain cancers.
- Pregnancy.
- Liver disease.
- High levels of rheumatoid factor.
- Infection.
If you are having the D-dimer test to monitor treatment for a blood clotting disease, a decreased level of D-dimer means that the treatment is working.
Talk with your health care provider to discuss your results, treatment options, and if necessary, the need for more tests. Talk with your health care provider if you have any questions about your results.
How do I get my results?
It is up to you to get your test results. Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.
