D-Dimer Quantitative is a blood test that measures the level of D-dimer, a protein fragment produced when blood clots are formed and subsequently broken down in the body. The test is primarily needed to help assess the possibility of abnormal blood clot formation, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). It is often interpreted along with symptoms, clinical assessment, and other investigations.
D-dimer is a marker of clot formation and breakdown. An increased level suggests that clotting and fibrinolysis are occurring somewhere in the body, but it does not identify the location or cause.
In people with an appropriate clinical assessment and low or moderate probability of a blood clot, a normal result can help make conditions such as DVT or PE less likely.
An elevated D-dimer may occur with blood clots but can also result from infection, inflammation, recent surgery, injury, pregnancy, or other conditions. It does not by itself confirm a clot.
No. D-dimer is not specific enough to diagnose a clot on its own. Imaging tests and clinical assessment may be needed to confirm or exclude a clot.
DVT is a blood clot that usually develops in a deep vein, commonly in the leg. It may cause swelling, pain, warmth, or tenderness in the affected area.
PE occurs when a blood clot, often originating in a deep vein, travels to the lungs and blocks a blood vessel. It can cause sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or rapid heartbeat.