The specific degradation of fibrin (ie, fibrinolysis) is the reactive mechanism responding to the formation of fibrin. Plasmin is the fibrinolytic enzyme derived from inactive plasminogen. Plasminogen is converted into plasmin by plasminogen activators. In the bloodstream, plasmin is rapidly and specifically neutralized by alpha-2-antiplasmin, thereby restricting its fibrinogenolytic activity and localizes the fibrinolysis on the fibrin clot. On the fibrin clot, plasmin degrades fibrin into various products (ie, D-dimers).

Antibodies specific for these products, which do not recognize fibrinogen, have been developed. The presence of these various fibrin degradation products, among which D-dimer is the terminal product, is the proof that the fibrinolytic system is in action in response to coagulation activation.

Elevated D-dimer levels are found in association with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), trauma, and bleeding.

D-dimer may also be increased in association with pregnancy, liver disease, malignancy, inflammation, or a chronic hypercoagulable state.

This test measures the amount of D-dimer in a blood sample.

Early detection of a heart problem could save your life and prevent a heart attack. ECG's are painless and easily carried out, especially as with VisitHealth you can have one done in the comfort of your home.

An ECG looks at your heart’s rate, rhythm and electrical activity to detect problems with your heart. Sensors attached to the skin detect the electrical signals produced by your heart each time it beats. These signals can be used to identify a number of heart problems or defects.