D-Dimer Test

D-dimer is a kind of blood test that helps to monitor blood clotting problems. D-dimer is a type of protein fragment produced from the breakdown of blood clots in the body. Blood clots usually start to dissolve in the body after forming, and this process releases D-dimer into the bloodstream. Blood clots are formed whenever a blood vessel is damaged or injured. When the damaged blood vessel begins to bleed, it initiates a process of hemostasis to create a blood clot and eventually stop the bleeding.

 

What is the need for the test?

A healthcare provider may recommend this test if he or she suspects any blood clotting problems. Some of the conditions that can be ruled out through a D-dimer test are:

 

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) - A blood clot deep inside the vein, usually in the leg. These clots majorly affect the lower leg, but other body parts can also be affected.

Stroke - A blockage in the blood supply to the brain.

Pulmonary embolism - A blockage in the artery of the lungs. In most cases, it usually happens when blood clots from different body parts break and travel to the lungs. DVT clots are the primary cause of pulmonary embolism.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) - It is a condition that can cause the formation of too many blood clots throughout the body leading to blockage of small blood vessels, organ damage, and other serious complications.

Blood clots caused by the venom of snake bites

 

Any preparation required for the test?

D-dimer test requires no special preparation such as fasting or any special medication prior to the test. An individual can eat or drink normally before going for the test. During the test, a technician will insert a needle in the arm’s vein to collect the blood. The collected blood sample is sent to the laboratory for evaluation.

 

Understanding the results

A positive or higher than normal D-dimer level may indicate that the individual has had a major blood clot. Although the test does not tells the location and cause of the clot.
A normal or negative-dimer result indicates that a clotting problem is unlikely.

 

Is there any risk to the test process?

D-dimer test possesses no risk to the individual. However, the person may have slight pain or bruise at the spot from where the blood was taken.

 

What are the other risk factors for inappropriate blood clots?

 

• Major surgery or trauma
• Prolonged immobility
• Pregnancy
• Using birth control or hormone replacement therapy
• Few cancers
• Broken bone
• Inherited clotting disorders
• History of venous thromboembolism
• Smoking
• Being overweight

 

D-dimer test at HOD

To book a test, please go through the link given below
https://www.hod.care/test/d-dimer

 

Note: Before getting the test done, please consult your doctor.

 

Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/d-dimer-test/
https://labtestsonline.org/tests/d-dimer