D-Dimer Test in London – Why It Matters and Why It’s Not Enough Alone
When patients experience symptoms like sudden leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath, doctors often want to rule out a blood clot. The D-Dimer test is an important tool in this process. However, it is crucial to understand that a D-Dimer test alone is not always enough.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, London, we provide same-day D-Dimer testing as part of wider diagnostic profiles that give a more complete picture of your health.
What is a D-Dimer test?
D-Dimer is a protein fragment released when the body breaks down a blood clot. A blood test measures D-Dimer levels, helping doctors rule out clotting problems such as:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – clots in the legs
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) – clots in the lungs
- Other clotting disorders
High D-Dimer levels suggest the body is breaking down clots. But the test has limitations.
Why a D-Dimer test alone is not enough
While useful, the D-Dimer test should not be seen as a stand-alone investigation:
- It is not specific. Many conditions (infections, inflammation, liver disease, pregnancy, recent surgery) can raise D-Dimer levels.
- False positives are common. High levels do not always mean a blood clot.
- It cannot confirm clot location. Imaging (e.g. ultrasound or CT) may be needed.
- It cannot measure overall cardiovascular risk. Cholesterol, blood pressure, and other markers are equally important.
For this reason, doctors often combine D-Dimer with other tests to get reliable answers.
Symptoms that may require clot testing
Seek medical assessment if you have:
- Sudden pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Dizziness or fainting after travel or surgery
- Risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or long periods of immobility
The right way to test for clots at MDC
At MDC, we rarely recommend D-Dimer alone. Instead, we include it in profiles that provide a fuller picture of clotting and cardiovascular health.
Examples include:
1. Cardiovascular Risk Profile – Book Now
- D-Dimer
- Cholesterol & lipid panel
- Inflammation markers (CRP, ESR)
- Kidney and liver function
2. Full Body MOT – Book Now
- D-Dimer
- Complete blood count
- Diabetes (HbA1c)
- Thyroid, kidney, and liver markers
- Vitamins and minerals
This approach ensures you get answers that go beyond a single test.
How the test is done
- Book an appointment at our Baker Street clinic.
- A blood sample is taken by our phlebotomy team.
- D-Dimer and related tests are analysed.
- Same-day results are available for urgent cases.
- Our doctors explain results and arrange further investigations if needed.
FAQs about D-Dimer testing
Why choose MDC for clotting & cardiovascular testing?
- Central London clinic – 73 Baker Street
- Same-day results available
- Comprehensive profiles, not just single tests
- No GP referral needed
- Trusted by patients for discreet, professional care
The D-Dimer test is an important tool in ruling out dangerous blood clots. But on its own, it can be misleading. At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, London, we provide D-Dimer testing as part of wider diagnostic profiles. This gives you a complete, reliable view of your health and peace of mind.
Book your cardiovascular or Full Body MOT today to include D-Dimer and a full set of essential tests.
73 Baker Street, London
+44 7495 970109
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