D-dimer is a specific degradation fragment of cross-linked fibrin. High plasma D-dimer is an indicator of intravascular fibrin formation and plasmin-mediated fibrinolysis. Measurement of plasma D-dimer concentration is useful to aid in the diagnosis of systemic thrombosis, including pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Quantitative D-dimer assays have replaced semi-quantitative methods in medical practice. When combined with clinical criteria, the finding of low D-dimer is useful for ruling out thrombosis and PTE early in the diagnostic work-up.

The Comparative Coagulation Laboratory is now offering a quantitative D-dimer test for animals in place of a semi-quantitative test method. A specific value, rather than concentration range, provides more precise monitoring for serial assessments of patient status. Testing algorithms that incorporate quantitative D-dimer may improve diagnostic accuracy for early identification of thrombosis