D Dimer

What is D-Dimer?
D-Dimer test looks for the presence of D-Dimer, a protein fragment which forms when a blood clot dissolves, in blood. This test is used for the diagnosis of blood clotting disorders, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis. The test is often done when someone has symptoms such as difficulty breathing and chest pain.

 

If your results show levels greater than normal, you may have to connect with your doctor to find out if you have a clotting disorder or any other medical condition.

Why is D-Dimer done?
D-dimer test is used to detect the presence of an inappropriate blood clot (thrombus). Some of the conditions that the D-dimer test is used to help rule out include:

-Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
-Pulmonary embolism (PE)
-Stroke

What does D-Dimer Measure?
D-dimer testing is usually ordered when someone goes to the hospital with symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty in breathing. A D-dimer test may be ordered when someone has symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, such as:
-Leg pain or tenderness, usually in one leg
-Leg swelling, edema
-Discoloration of the leg

This test may also be ordered when someone has symptoms of pulmonary embolism such as:

-Rapid heart rate
-Sudden shortness of breath, forced breathing
-Coughing hemoptysis (blood present in sputum)
-Lung-related chest pain