Different cut-off values of quantitative D-dimer methods to predict the risk of venous thromboembolism recurrence: a post-hoc analysis of the PROLONG study

Abstract

BackgroundThe PROLONG study showed that patients with venous thromboembolism who had qualitatively abnormal results in a D-dimer assay (Clearview Simplify D-dimer) after discontinuation of vitamin K antagonism benefit from resumption of treatment with vitamin K antagonism. The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible advantage of using quantitative D-dimer assays.

Use of D-dimer testing to determine duration of anticoagulation, risk of cardiovascular events and occult cancer after a first episode of idiopathic venous thromboembolism: the extended follow-up of the PROLONG study

“…However, in a post-hoc analysis we have calculated specific cut-offs of different quantitative D-dimer methods on plasma samples from the PROLONG study [24]. Further studies are needed to validate these cut-offs.…”

Biochemical markers for the diagnosis of venous thromboembolism: the past, present and future

“…Moreover, it has been clearly demonstrated that ''normal'' DD values differ widely among different healthy and diseased populations [37]. As such, it has been suggested that each laboratory should validate the manufacturer cutoff to improve the quality of the local diagnostic pathway according to the population studied (i.e., selection of different cut-off levels according to the age or other characteristics of the patients such as renal clearance, increased fibrinogen levels and the presence of occult disease) [65]. One practical approach for harmonizing results is the use of linear regression (i.e., transformation of the method-specific regression line to a reference line common for all the assays by using a set of standard preparations containing a similar variety of cross-linked fibrin compounds), which can substantially decrease the within-methods variability (e.g.…”

Usefulness of repeated D-dimer testing after stopping anticoagulation for a first episode of unprovoked venous thromboembolism: the PROLONG II prospective study

“…11 However, in a post-hoc analysis we have calculated specific cut-offs of different quantitative D-d methods on frozen plasma samples from the PROLONG study. 17 The prospective management DULCIS (D-dimer and Ultrasound in Combination Italian Study) study is currently ongoing to validate these cutoffs.…”