The Effectiveness of D-dimer and Ultrasonography in Ruling Out Deep Venous Thromboses
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Authors
Steffan, Emily
Date of Issue
2021
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Subject Keywords
Other Titles
Abstract
Objective. To review current literature on the effectiveness of ultrasonography and D-dimer assays in ruling out and diagnosing deep venous thromboses (DVT).
Methods. Literature identified through PubMed and Google Scholar searches was reviewed regarding the effectiveness of D-dimer or ultrasonography in identifying DVT.
Results. D-dimer assays should be the initial diagnostic test used after determining the patient’s clinical risk for DVT. If the D-dimer is negative, ultrasonography need not be used. If D-dimer is positive, ultrasonography must be performed to confirm a DVT diagnosis.
Conclusion. A positive D-dimer cannot be used to diagnose a DVT, so in patients with a high clinical risk, ultrasonography should be used. In patients with low or moderate clinical risk, a negative D-dimer can rule out a DVT.
Keywords: DVT; Ultrasound; D-dimer; rule out; clinical risk; VTE.