D-DIMER: ANALYTE, METHODS, TARGETS, PURPOSES
The review includes modern data concerning D-dimer evaluation and significance of testing. The combination of factors leading to D-dimer generation and accumulation in blood is described, as well as pre-analytical characteristics, analytical methods of the test and conventional normal threshold. The clinical significance and interpretation of test results in pregnant women, elderly people and medically ill patients are also discussed. D-dimer role as the marker of coagulation activation and the predictor of venous thromboembolism is specially accentuated meaning the position of D-dimer testing in optimal strategy for diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and patient management, and in the prediction of thrombotic outcomes in cancer patients and after discontinuation of anticoagulation therapy.