D-dimer. Prices, Reviews, Ratings
D-dimer is a protein fragment formed in blood plasma after fibrin breakdown following thrombus rupture.
D-dimer is a protein fragment formed in blood plasma after fibrin breakdown following thrombus rupture.
General Information
D-dimer testing diagnoses thrombotic processes.
Two outcomes exist:
- Negative – no thrombosis;
- Positive – confirms thrombosis or related pathology.
The test rules out thromboembolism.
Blood clots (coagulation) form after clotting amino acid chains activate, contacting damaged artery walls (“external” clotting) or under clotting factor influence (“internal”). Soluble fibrinogen amino acids transform into fibrin, then fibrin fibers. Thrombin-generated enzymes create cross-links, forming an insoluble gel scaffolding clots.
Indications for D-dimer Blood Testing
The primary indication is impaired blood clotting with massive thromboplastin release (DIC syndrome).
Thrombi form at tissue rupture sites or within arteries if walls are damaged by endogenous or exogenous substances.
Thrombogenesis occurs with:
- Late-stage infections;
- Atrial fibrillation;
- Varicose diseases;
- Post-surgical complications.
Diagnosis applies to:
- Deep vein thrombosis (severe leg pain, swelling, pale skin at thrombosis sites);
- Pulmonary thromboembolism (sudden dyspnea, breathing difficulty, cough, chest spasms, rapid heartbeat);
- DIC syndrome (dyspnea, cyanosis, nausea, vomiting, severe pain, reduced urination).
The highest D-dimer concentration occurs with DIC, a dangerous condition where numerous small clots block small vessels. Cardiac thrombus formation may be fatal.
D-dimer testing is indicated for suspected pulmonary embolism and can diagnose aortic dissection. Elevated levels warrant anticoagulant therapy; confirmed clots prompt immediate leg vein ultrasound (ultrasonography) or lung scintigraphy.
How D-dimer Testing Is Conducted
Preparation includes:
- Excluding fatty foods for 24 hours;
- Avoiding emotional stress and nervous system irritants;
- No smoking 30 minutes prior;
- No medications (consult a doctor);
- No alcohol.
A specialist draws venous blood, sometimes diluted with a 9:1 coagulant. Healthy individuals’ results do not exceed 500 ng/mL, measured in µg FEU/mL, averaging 0-0.55 µg FEU/mL.
Sudden concentration spikes typically indicate venous clot blockage or DIC syndrome.
Elevated levels may also suggest:
- Heart disease;
- Cancer;
- Liver cirrhosis;
- Pregnancy.
Elevated D-dimer concentration is common in the elderly.
Turnaround Time for D-dimer Testing
Results are available within one working day, or two hours in emergencies.
Prices and Clinics
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