BCEN CEN Practice Question

An elevated D-dimer indicates the presence of fibrin degradation products, which occurs when blood clots are broken down. While it is a sensitive marker for venous thromboembolism (including PE), it is not specific. Many other conditions can lead to fibrin formation and breakdown, resulting in a positive D-dimer test. These include recent surgery, trauma, infection, malignancy, and pregnancy. Therefore, an elevated D-dimer requires correlation with clinical assessment and often further imaging to diagnose a PE. Stable angina, hypothyroidism, and benign prostatic hyperplasia do not typically cause a significant elevation in D-dimer levels.