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Test Code LAB313 D-Dimer, Quantitative

Important Note

D-Dimer specimens should be kept at room temperature and tested within 10 hours. Do not refrigerate D-Dimer specimens. If testing cannot be completed within 10 hours, separate the plasma into an aliquot container and freeze the specimen at -20°C. Specimens frozen offsite should be double spun / plasma separated prior to freezing. Frozen specimens should be thawed at room temperature, remixed thoroughly, and tested immediately.

Additional Codes

CPT Code: 85379

Methodology

Used in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). 

Performing Laboratory

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional - Core Laboratory: Hematology

Specimen Requirements

Draw blood in a light blue-top (3.2% sodium citrate) tube, and send 4.5 mL of sodium citrate whole blood. Sodium citrate tube must be at least 90% full for accurate results. (Clotted or hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.)

Reference Values

<0.50 ug/mL FEU

 

The presence of pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, or DIC is unlikely when the D-Dimer is present at levels <0.50 ug/mL FEU.  False negative results may be seen with patients on anti-coagulants or anti-platelet drugs.  This test is not specific and must be interpreted with clinical findings and other test results. 

 

The Adjust-PE Study, Righini, et al., recommends age-adjusted D-Dimer reference intervals for patients over age 50 with suspected PE.  In our reporting units, ug/mL FEU, the cut-off would be less than the patient's age divided by 100. 

Additional Information

Available STAT

 

If an order for "Fibrin Degradation Products" (CPT 85362) is received, the provider most likely just wants a D-Dimer order. Contact the physician to confirm.