D Dimer

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Objective:

Determine the significance and clinical use of D-Dimer in clinical practice

Lab Test Name:

D-Dimer- DDI

Description:

Measurement of D-Dimer evaluates the amount of byproduct produced as part of fibrinolysis

D-dimer (DDI) is a product of fibrinolysis

D-dimer levels are elevated in the setting of clot breakdown, and will be significantly elevated in the setting of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC).

Indications:

Identify and monitor

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Rule out a blood clot:

• Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Stroke

Normal Therapeutic Values:

Normal – ≤ 250 ng/mL

Collection:

• Light blue lab tube

What would cause increased levels?

Increased

• Surgery
• Trauma
• Infection
• Cancer
• Heart attack
• Pregnancy
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

What would cause decreased levels?

Indicates a lack of the substance that is released during the breakdown of a blood clot (i.e. lack of blood clots, or lack of fibrinolysis)