Key result
Quantitative D-dimer assays have higher sensitivity but lower specificity than qualitative tests, though no assay is sensitive enough for the safe exclusion of venous thromboembolism.
Why the study?
Can D-dimer concentration assays safely exclude venous thromboembolism?
Can D-dimer concentration assays safely exclude venous thromboembolism?
D-dimer assays alone, whether quantitative or qualitative, are not sufficiently sensitive to safely exclude venous thromboembolism.
D-dimer assays alone cannot safely exclude VTE; leaves open optimal integration with imaging in diagnostic algorithms.
Summary The use of the D‐dimer concentration for the exclusion of venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been evaluated circumstantially in many clinical studies and meta‐analyses with different kinds of assays and tests. The sensitivity and specificity depend upon the prevalence of the VTE in the patient population and this explains the variety of results of the different studies. With a combination of studies in meta‐analyses, more reliable results and conclusions can be obtained. The quantitative assays have a higher sensitivity, but a lower specificity than the qualitative tests, but no assay or test is sensitive enough for a safe exclusion of VTE.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Haas et al. (2007) conducted a review in Venous thromboembolism (VTE). D-dimer concentration assays vs. Qualitative tests was evaluated on Exclusion of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Quantitative D-dimer assays have higher sensitivity but lower specificity than qualitative tests, though no assay is sensitive enough for the safe exclusion of venous thromboembolism.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: