D-Dimer (DDI) Lab Values

Objective: Determine the significance and clinical use of  D-Dimer in clinical practice   Lab Test Name: D-Dimer- DDI   Description: Measurement of D-Dimer evaluates the amount of byproduct produced as part of fibrinolysis D-dimer (DDI) is a product of fibrinolysis D-dimer levels are elevated in the setting of clot breakdown, and will be significantly elevated in the setting of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC).   Indications: Identify and monitor  Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) Rule out a blood clot: Pulmonary Embolism (PE) Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Stroke   Normal Therapeutic Values: Normal – ≤ 250 ng/mL Collection:  Light blue lab tube   What would cause increased levels? Increased Surgery Trauma Infection Cancer Heart attack Pregnancy Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)   What would cause decreased levels? Indicates a lack of the substance that is released during the breakdown of a blood clot (i.e. lack of blood clots, or lack of fibrinolysis)