A patient's lab results show a significantly elevated D-dimer level. While this may indicate a pulmonary embolus (PE), the emergency nurse recognizes that other conditions can also cause this finding. Which of the following is another common cause for an elevated D-dimer?
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.
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