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Positive d dimer negative ct scan

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So ever since i started a beta blocker i have a hard time taking in a deep breath but today was worse so im i the er they see.my history of a pe and run a d dimer. It comes up positive they do a chest ct scan with contrast no clot but why is d dimer positive?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • peter54321
    peter54321 Sway

    Posted

    d-dimer is not so much a "yes or no" test, more of a "maybe". It returns a reading in a range. I forget what the measurements are in, but it's under 500 for a negative and over for a positive. Usually, it is a lot over if you have clots (above 2000).

    What it indicates is the body responding to something, not just a pe. So an infection or an injury could test positive as well.

    My d-dimer was around 2500 and they DIDN'T give me a CT until my second attack. So I guess it's a judgement call. Maybe speak to your specialist to confirm?

    (My experience of beta blockers is much as you describe. I was given them long before the PEs for a heart rhythm issue, but had to stop taking them as they made me too lethargic.)

     

  • samuels
    samuels Sway

    Posted

    Hi,

    ?I have been told this type of blood test isn't very reliable, for whatever reason, I can't remember. Sorry I can't offer any other reason or give you an exact answer for a positive answer for a + D dimer blood test.

  • kathylake
    kathylake Sway

    Posted

    from what I understand the d dimer test can only rule out not having a PE (low result) a high result requires additional testing because  other things can cause the numbers to be high.
  • carrie27300
    carrie27300 Sway

    Posted

    The d dimer can also be elevated due to infection or inflammation some where in your Hope this helps x 
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