LAB TEST
D-dimer test
D-dimer tests are used to check for blood clotting problems. Blood clots can cause health problems, such as: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) Pulmonary embolism (PE) Stroke
How the Test is Performed
The D-dimer test is a blood test. You will need to get a blood sample drawn .
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is necessary.
How the Test will Feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or a slight bruise.
Why the Test is Performed
Your health care provider may order a D-dimer test if you are showing symptoms of blood clots or abnormal bleeding, such as: Swelling, pain, warmth, and changes in skin color of your leg or arm Sharp chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, or fast heartbeat Bleeding gums, nausea and vomiting, seizures,…
Normal Results
A normal test is negative. This means that you probably do not have problems with blood clotting. If you are getting the D-dimer test to see if treatment is working for DIC, a normal or decreasing level of D-dimer means the treatment is working.
What Abnormal Results Mean
A positive test means that you may be making blood clots. The test does not tell where the clots are or why you are making clots. Your provider may order other tests to see where clots are located. A positive test may be caused by other factors, and you may not have any clots. D-dimer levels can be positive due to:…
Risks
Veins vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others. Risks of having blood drawn are slight, but may include: Excessive bleeding Multiple punctures to locate veins Fainting or feeling lightheaded…
References
Chan NC, Weitz JI. Venous thromboembolism. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 140. Goldhaber SZ, Piazza G. Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. In: Libby, P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Tomaselli, GF, Bhatt DL,…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 11/03/2024).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.