D-Dimer Test
D-Dimer is a fibrin degradation product released when blood clots are broken down. Elevated D-Dimer indicates that clot formation and breakdown (fibrinolysis) is occurring, but it is not specific to any particular condition. It is most commonly used to help rule out venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE).
Turnaround 48 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 48 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
Reference Ranges
See the value that applies to you:
Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.
Enter your age — this range changes with age.
This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.
Reference values can vary between laboratories. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.
D-Dimer: what this test measures
This test measures the concentration of D-Dimer fragments in your blood. These fragments are produced when cross-linked fibrin in blood clots is broken down by plasmin.
D-Dimer: why this value matters
A negative D-Dimer result is very useful for ruling out DVT and PE in patients with low-to-moderate clinical probability. However, D-Dimer can be elevated by many conditions and naturally rises with age.
D-Dimer: how the blood test works
- Referral
- No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
- The draw
- A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
- Results
- Turnaround: up to 48 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
- Where
- 650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites
D-Dimer: when is testing worthwhile?
D-Dimer is typically ordered when DVT or PE is suspected but clinical probability is not high. It is also used to monitor DIC and assess thrombotic risk. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
D-Dimer: symptoms of a high or low value
Low Levels
A normal D-Dimer strongly suggests that a significant blood clot is not present. This has a high negative predictive value, particularly in younger patients.
High Levels
Elevated D-Dimer can be caused by DVT, PE, DIC, surgery, trauma, infection, inflammation, pregnancy, cancer, and advanced age. It indicates clotting activity but cannot identify the specific cause.
D-Dimer: lifestyle and this value
D-Dimer levels are influenced by underlying conditions rather than lifestyle factors directly. Maintaining cardiovascular health through regular exercise, a healthy weight, and not smoking reduces overall thrombotic risk.
D-Dimer: frequently asked questions
Does an elevated D-Dimer mean I have a blood clot?
Not necessarily. D-Dimer can be elevated by many conditions. Its main clinical value is in ruling OUT clots when the result is normal.
Why does D-Dimer increase with age?
Age-related increases in background coagulation activity cause D-Dimer to naturally rise. Age-adjusted cut-offs (age x 10 mcg/L for those over 50) improve specificity in older patients.
Can D-Dimer be elevated during pregnancy?
Yes. D-Dimer progressively rises during normal pregnancy, making standard cut-offs unreliable. Pregnancy-specific reference ranges are used.
Results without a doctor's assessment
You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.
D-Dimer
€31,-