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d-dimer test

test overview

a d-dimer test is a blood test that measures a substance that is released when a blood clot breaks up. doctors order the d-dimer test, along with other lab tests and imaging scans, to help check for blood-clotting problems. a d-dimer test can also be used to check how well a treatment is working.

why it is done

doctors use the d-dimer test when a person might have a dangerous blood-clotting problem. these problems include:

how to prepare

no special preparation is required before having this test.

how it is done

a health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

watch

how it feels

when a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.

risks

there is very little chance of having a problem from this test. when a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.

results

each lab has a different range for what's normal. your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. the normal range is just a guide. your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. a value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.

  • a low or normal d-dimer test result means that there is very little of the substance that's released as a blood clot breaks up. having very little of this substance means that a blood clotting problem isn't likely.
  • a higher-than-normal d-dimer level might mean that there is a blood-clotting problem. but a higher level might be caused by some other health problem or by a normal healing process.
  • d-dimer levels are often higher than normal in people who have abnormal blood clotting.

credits

current as of: december 13, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

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