D-dimer is a protein fragment that forms when a blood clot dissolves in the body. While the body continuously forms and dissolves small blood clots as part of normal processes, D-dimer levels are typically undetectable or very low in the bloodstream.
What Does High D-Dimer Indicate?
Elevated D-Dimer Levels (greater than 0.5 μg/mL): This may indicate the presence of a blood clot in the body, such as:
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A condition where a blood clot forms in deep veins, usually in the legs.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot traveling to the lungs, preventing oxygen exchange and leading to sudden shortness of breath and chest pain.
- Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): An abnormal blood clotting condition where multiple clots form and dissolve throughout the body.
- Stroke: A blockage in arteries supplying blood to the brain.
- Complications of COVID-19: The SARS-CoV-2 virus primarily affects the respiratory system. High D-dimer levels in COVID-19 patients are associated with severe disease and higher mortality rates.
- Post-COVID-19 Vaccination: Some individuals may exhibit elevated D-dimer levels following vaccination, though this is not common.
False Positive D-Dimer Results:
Factors that might elevate D-dimer levels without indicating serious conditions include:
- Aging
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Recent surgery
- Infections
- Other conditions such as heart disease or rheumatoid arthritis
Treatment for High D-Dimer Levels
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve:
- Anticoagulant medications to prevent clot formation
- Thrombolytic therapy to dissolve existing clots
- Surgical removal of the clot in severe cases
References :
1. D-dimer test. In Health Direct. Retrieved from [healthdirect.gov.au]
2. D-Dimer Test. (2021). In MedlinePlus. Retrieved from [medlineplus.gov]
3. Higgins, C. (2021). D-dimer testing in patients with COVID-19. In Acute Care Testing. Retrieved from [acutecaretesting.org]
