Understanding the D-Dimer Test: When and Why It’s Done

The formation of unusual blood clots, especially in specific locations in the body, can be hazardous to health. The D-dimer test, which aids in the early detection of possible clotting disorders, can be helpful to doctors and patients alike. This article will explain the test, when and why it’s done, and what to expect in the results.

What is a D-Dimer test?

The D-Dimer test is a diagnostic tool for detecting blood clotting conditions. It measures levels of D-Dimer in the blood. It is a protein fragment formed as a by-product when blood clots are dissolved by the body. Blood clotting helps prevent excessive blood loss upon injury. However, clots can sometimes form unnecessarily, which can lead to serious conditions.

When is a D-Dimer test done?

A D-Dimer test is often suggested by doctors if they suspect blood clotting disorders in the patient. Elevated levels in the D-Dimer test means, in certain cases, the existence of the following conditions:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

  DVT is a condition where the formation of a blood clot occurs within a vein, which can block blood flow through it. These tend to occur in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvic veins. It can lead to symptoms like-

1. Leg pain, swelling, or tenderness
2. Redness or skin darkening on the leg
3. Warmth in the swollen area

• Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

  A blood clot in the body can flow into the blood vessels of the lung and lodge there, leading to PE. These can begin in the arms and legs. The symptoms of PE include-

1. Coughing
2. Sudden or sharp chest pain
3. Shortness of breath or fast breathing

• Stroke

  Blockage of blood flow into the brain can lead to a stroke. The following symptoms characterise a stroke-

1. Sudden numbness in body parts, especially on one side of the body
2. Difficulty walking, dizziness
3. Difficulty speaking, seeing

• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

  Formation of multiple blood clots across the body causes DIC. Although rare, this condition can harm various organs. Symptoms include-

1. Gum bleeding
2. Seizures
3. Nausea, vomiting

To detect or rule out such conditions, in the presence of such symptoms, a doctor may order a D-Dimer test. Other than conditions like DVT, PE, and DIC, high D-Dimer causes can include factors such as family history, smoking, age, surgery, obesity, and inflammation.

Why is a D-Dimer test done?

If a healthcare provider suspects such clotting disorders in a patient, they might recommend a D-Dimer test to investigate further. A D-Dimer test is also done to monitor how the body is responding to treatments for these blood clotting disorders, especially DIC. D-Dimer in normal range can indicate progress in this regard.

How is a D-Dimer test done?

The D-dimer test is a simple procedure. In this, a medical or lab technician draws a blood sample from the patient’s arm. Once the sample is analysed, results are usually available within a few hours or by the next day.

What to expect in test results?

The D-Dimer test’s normal range can vary based on different laboratories and their methods. Typically, the normal range is less than 243 ng/mL. High levels can indicate persistent clotting, although this information alone cannot entirely diagnose a condition. This is because high D-Dimer symptoms can also occur due to recent surgery, pregnancy, injuries, or infections.

What are the risks of a D-Dimer test?

There are no inherent risks to a D-Dimer test beyond the negligible pain and bruising of giving a blood sample. Some people might experience dizziness after blood is drawn. Healthcare providers should be informed of medical history and medications prior to analysing test results.

To book a D-Dimer test, download the Lal Path Lab app on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

FAQs

1. What is the D-Dimer Test used for?
   A D-Dimer test means the level of D-Dimer protein in the blood. It is used to check for abnormal clotting conditions.
2. How can I prepare for a D-Dimer test?
   No prior preparation is necessary to undergo a D-Dimer test. As with other tests, an individual should inform the healthcare provider of ongoing medications, family and medical history.
3. What level of D-Dimer is dangerous?
   Dangerous levels of D-Dimer are subjective. Values above 5000 ng/mL are considered predictive of disease. Consult a doctor for the right assessment of D-Dimer test results.
4. Can pregnancy affect D-Dimer levels?
   Yes, pregnancy can moderately change the D-Dimer test’s normal range. This increase is progressive throughout the duration of pregnancy, which can make the test less specific in diagnosing blood clotting conditions.
5. What is the normal range for D-Dimer?

The normal range for a D-Dimer test varies based on labs and testing methods. 0 – 500 ng/mL is considered safe. Consult a doctor for clarity on test results.