Facebook Pixel
EmpowHER Guest
Q: 

can a bloud test detect a bloud clot

By Anonymous October 5, 2011 - 3:23pm
 
Rate This

Add a Comment1 Comments

Guide

Hi,
Blood tests may be done to check if there is chance of blood clotting or hypercoagulability. This type of testing includes Activated protein C resistance,Antithrombin III and Screening for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). These test are not used to diagnosis a blood clot.
Blood clots are diagnosed with the use of ultrasound, venography, CT scan and a ventilation perfusion scan.
Sometimes, a blood test is used to screen for blood clots. D-Dimer is a breakdown product of a blood clot, and its levels in the bloodstream may be measured. Blood clots are not stagnant; the body tries to dissolve them at the same time as new clot is being formed. D-Dimer is not specific for a blood clot in a given area and cannot distinguish a "good” or needed blood clot, one that forms after surgery or due to bruising from a fall, from one that is causing medical problems. It is used as a screening test with hopes that the result will be negative and show that there is no need to look further for blood clots.
The D-dimer blood test is usually ordered with the expectation that it will be negative. It is a useful test in patients who have a low probability of having a blood clot, and the health care practitioner usually counsels the patient that a positive blood test will likely require additional tests being ordered.
Thanks for your question.
Maryann

October 5, 2011 - 5:49pm
Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy
Add a Comment

All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.

Blood Clots

Get Email Updates

Blood Clots Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!