The measurement of fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) is mainly used to diagnose acute diffuse vascular coagulation and obstructive vascular disease.
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During hemostasis, the fibrin, with the addition of the fibrin stabilizer, forms a fixed fibrin thrombus at the injury site. When the fibrin clot is no longer needed, it is dissolved using fibrinolytic agents such as plasmin, producing fibrinogen degradation products (or FDP). Their presence in the blood indicates recent activity of the coagulation mechanism. The FDPs have an anticoagulant effect and inhibit coagulation.
Measurement of fibrinogen degradation products provides information on the activity of fibrinolytic mechanisms. When high levels of fibrinogen degradation products are present, they show increased fibrinolysis, as is the case with diffuse intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Placental abruption, aneurysm, transfusion reaction, brain injury, burns, carcinomatosis, alcoholic cirrhosis, congenital heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, internal bleeding, intrauterine death, myocardial infarction, organ rejection (in kidney transplantation), standard delivery, cesarean section delivery, preeclampsia, pregnancy (third trimester), pulmonary embolism, pulmonary infarction, kidney disease, respiratory distress (neonatal), rheumatoid arthritis, sepsis, shock, squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, subdural hematoma, sunstroke, surgical complications, extensive tissue destruction. Medications: Barbiturates, heparin, oral contraceptives, streptokinase, urokinase.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
