Test Description:
A D-dimer test is a blood test that measures the amount of D-dimer, a protein fragment produced when a blood clot dissolves. It is used to detect blood clotting disorders such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Indications of the D-dimer Test:
The test is used to find out if an individual has a blood clotting disorder. It is often ordered when a person shows symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, warmth, and changes in skin color of the leg or arm, sharp chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, or a fast heartbeat.
Patient Preparation/Instructions:
No special preparation is necessary for the test. It involves a simple blood draw, and the patient may feel a prick or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted.
Typical Reference Values
A normal D-dimer level is considered to be less than 0.50, while a positive result is 0.50 or greater.
Turnaround Time:
The turnaround time for a D-dimer test is typically short, results are usually available within 2-3 hours
How to Order D-dimer Test
If you are experiencing symptoms of a blood clotting disorder, it is important to consult a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and determine if a D-dimer test is necessary. The test can be ordered by a healthcare provider and is performed using a blood sample drawn by a trained professional.