What does a high D-dimer level indicate, and how can it be treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife has been having chest and abdominal pain for several years. Recently, the doctor asked us to take a D-Dimer test, and the result came up 1.14, and after we visited the doctor, she asked us to take a VQ scan scheduled in a week. I got so scared learning about the D-Dimer test while browsing the internet. We have taken all tests, including a CT scan and nuclear test for the abdomen, and all the tests are normal. The doctor finally concluded that it was chronic pain and prescribed medication for the pain. Currently, I am taking Duloxetine HCL DR 60 mg and Losartan potassium 100 mg. Please guide me on how critical this range is for my wife and the treatment options for the elevated D-Dimer range. My wife also complains of one small-sized kidney with less function and chronic pain.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

In pulmonary embolisms like thrombotic events, D dimer can be elevated. Therefore, you can have pulmonary embolism as D dimer is elevated and chest pain is present. Therefore, VQ (ventilation–perfusion) scan or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) angiography can be planned to locate the thrombus, and echocardiography also should be done.

Low molecular weight heparin can be given initially, and then maintenance Warfarin or Rivaroxaban can be prescribed as an oral anticoagulant. However, please consult a physician, discuss with them, and start taking the medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thanks and take care.