These clots can be fatal.
Getting prompt treatment increases your chances of surviving and avoiding other medical problems.
This article discusses the D-dimer test, how doctors use it, and its limitations.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
It also explains the link between COVID-19 and elevated D-dimer levels.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
What Is a D-Dimer Test?
D-dimer is a substance involved in the body’s healing process.
The clot that forms plugs the damaged vessel.
Once the bleeding stops, your body sends out other proteins to slowly break down the clot.
Afterward, you end up with fragments of D-dimer in your blood.
The semi-solid mass of blood cells that form control the bleeding and eventually bring it to a stop.
These protein fragments usually dissolve over time.
The D-Dimer test is a blood test that can measure the amount of these fragments in your blood.
Can COVID Cause High D-Dimer Results?
Yes, COVID-19 can cause elevated D-dimer levels.
COVID is associated with an increased risk of blood clots.
The D-dimer test is used to identify blood clots.
Anyone can get a blood clot.
Doctors usually order a D-dimer test to rule out two dangerous types of blood clots.
What Is a D-Dimer Test Used For?
Ruling out DVT and PE is the main reason doctors order D-dimer tests.
However, the test can help doctors evaluate and manage other severe conditions that involve blood clots as well.
These include:
Why Do I Need the D-Dimer Test?
Diagnosing these conditions can be tricky.
Doctors used to have to send all blood samples to a central lab for analysis.
This caused delays and meant the test couldn’t be used for emergencies.
So doctors were forced to send patients for expensive imaging tests instead.
Healthcare providers can order D-dimer tests in emergency situations and have the results back within 24 hours.
In recent years, the Food and Drug Administration has approved several rapid D-dimer tests.
These tests provide doctors with a fast, inexpensive way to rule out DVT or PE.
You do not have to fast or do it at a certain time of day.
During the Test
The D-Dimer testing process is simple.
A blood sample is taken from the vein, usually in the arm, using a small needle.
After the Test
Most people will feel normal as soon as the test is complete.
You may have mild soreness in the arm muscle or slight bruising.
Typically, results will be ready in a day or two.
What Do the Results Mean?
The D-dimer test cannot be the sole basis to diagnose DVT or PE.
Studies show the D-dimer test is comparable to ultrasonography or CT angiography in ruling out PE.
The test is also helpful if your symptoms aren’t that clear.
If your levels are high, your doctor will order more tests.
What Does a High D-Dimer Mean?
Also, many people who’ve had a recent PE will still have elevated D-dimer levels.
So the test isn’t helpful for them.
In addition to PE, many diseases, treatments, and lifestyle factors can raise your D-dimer levels.
Thus, it’s essential to thoroughly answer your doctor’s questions about your medical history.
People with blood clots often have one or more of the same risk factors.
The test can also help diagnose other conditions that cause blood clots such as stroke and coronary artery disease.
A negative test result means you probably don’t have a blood clot.
Usually, you won’t need any further tests.
However, if your results come back high, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have a clot.
The test isn’t definitive.
Your doctor will likely order other tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Abnormal results on a D-dimer test warrant further testing.
Treatment depends on the cause of high D-dimer levels but typically includes statins or blood thinning medications.
You may be able to prevent high D-dimer levels by maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
However, if your D-dimer levels are high, speak to your healthcare provider before trying natural remedies.
A blood clot can be serious and should not be ignored.
National Library of Medicine.D-Dimer.
Blood clot in the lungs.
Prompt treatment may be lifesaving.Mayo Clin Health Lett.
2012;30(9):1-3.
2021;16(10):e0258351.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0258351
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Venous thromboembolism (blood clots).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Deep vein thrombosis & pulmonary embolism.
American Lung Association.Treating and managing pulmonary embolism.
2022;12(11):2770. doi:10.3390/diagnostics12112770
Merck Manual.Deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
2018;97(51):e12842.
doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000012842
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About venous thromboembolism (blood clots).
2017;37(11):2220-2227. doi:10.1161/ATVBAHA.117.310073
American Blood Clot Association.Foods that prevent blood clots.
2020;9(17):e016784.
2016;74(10):443-448.
