Laboratory Medicine

Test Directory / D-Dimer

D-Dimer

Citrated Plasma

Test	D-Dimer
Common Abbreviations	DD
Profile	Coagulation Screen added on the same sample
Clinical Indication	D-dimer tests are requested, along with other laboratory tests and imaging scans, to help exclude, diagnose, and monitor diseases and conditions that cause hypercoagulability. A negative D-dimer indicates that a VTE may be excluded if low two-level Wells Score. Measurements of D-dimer may also be requested, along with other tests, to help diagnose and monitor DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation).
Specimen Type	Blood
Sample Type	Citrated Plasma
Minimum Volume	1 x 3 mL (adult) 1 x 1 mL (paed) (citrated plasma must be filled to bottle line)
Special Precautions	Refer to Trust protocol
Stability	24 hrs
Turnaround Time	1 hour (urgent) 4 hours (routine)
Laboratory	York & Scarborough Hospital
Reference Interval	Age adjusted reference range printed on final report.
Limitations	Haemolysis, gross lipaemia, high haematocrit may interfere with measurement. Over or under filled samples cannot be used due to ratio between blood and citrate
Additional Information

Update for visitors

Visiting restrictions are in place at our hospitals to stop the spread of norovirus. These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The following wards are closed to visitors:

All wards at York Hospital

Coronary Care and Ash Ward at Scarborough Hospital

There are four exceptions only to the restrictions. These are:

For patients who are receiving end of life care

Paediatric patients (babies and children)

Maternity care

The family carers of those with dementia

We understand these restrictions can be difficult when a loved one is unwell. The restrictions will be reviewed daily and lifted as soon as it is safe. Thank you for your understanding as we try to reduce the spread of norovirus in our hospitals.