D-Dimer Testing in Patients with Venous Thrombosis

Data from two studies suggest that it is reasonable to measure D-dimer levels 2 to 3 weeks after a patient stops anticoagulation therapy.

For patients with venous thrombosis, the optimal duration of anticoagulation therapy is difficult to determine (JW Oncol Hematol May 19 2009). Stopping too soon can lead to disease recurrence, venous valve damage, and postthrombotic syndrome (PTS). However, the risk for serious bleeding increases with each year of anticoagulant administration.

Patients with venous thrombosis have elevated plasma levels of D-dimer, an indicator of activated coagulation and fibrinolysis. In two new studies, investigators evaluated the use of D-dimer levels to assess the risks for recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and PTS.

In the first study — a meta-analysis of seven prospective trials — researchers analyzed VTE recurrence among 1818 patients with a first …

Reviewing Author

David Green, MD, PhD

Disclosures

EquityNovartis

David Green, MD, PhD

Disclosures

EquityNovartis