Yes, D-dimer is a marker of thrombosis, which is the formation of a blood clot in a blood vessel. D-dimer is a molecule that is produced when a clot starts to form. It is a fragment of a larger molecule called fibrin, which is essential for clot formation. The presence of D-dimer in the blood is an indication that a clot has started to form.
D-dimer testing is often used to diagnose thrombosis and other conditions that cause clotting. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant treatments, such as heparin or warfarin. A high level of D-dimer in the blood is a sign of active clotting and the need for further investigation and treatment.
D-dimer testing is not perfect, however. False-positive readings can occur, and false-negative readings can also occur if the levels of D-dimer are not high enough to detect. In addition, D-dimer levels can be elevated in other conditions, such as pregnancy, cancer, and infection. Therefore, it is important to consider other factors when diagnosing thrombosis.
Overall, D-dimer is a useful marker of thrombosis, but it should not be used in isolation. It should be used in combination with other tests and clinical findings to accurately diagnose and monitor thrombosis.