Distribution of D-Dimer and FDP Test Results among South Koreans: Reference Laboratory Data from 2017 through 2023

Thrombus formation and dissolution are important indicators for the diagnosis and prognosis of various diseases. D-dimer and fibrin degradation product (FDP) are key biomarkers reflecting this process. However, studies on the distribution and characteristics of these biomarkers by age and gender in Koreans are lacking. The aim of this study was to utilize test data from EONE Laboratories, a large contract research institute, from 2017 through 2023 to analyze the age- and gender-specific distribution of D-dimer and FDP levels, changes in testing demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, and correlation between the tests, thereby providing basic data for a diagnosis strategy for thrombosis.

Data from EONE Laboratories collected between 2017 and 2023 were analyzed. After excluding individuals aged < 20 years, 11,483 adult cases with recorded gender and age were included. Microsoft Excel 2010, jamovi, and SPSS Statistics were used to compare testing trends by year, distribution by age and gender, and positive test rates.

In total, 11,483 out of 169,921 D-dimer and FDP test results were analyzed. The number of annual inspections exhibited a significant pattern, with a considerable increase of 153.7% between 2018 and 2019. Women aged 30 - 39 years had higher levels of D-dimer and FDP; a decrease was observed in those in their 40s, and an increase was observed in older individuals, forming a U-shaped curve. For men, the test results showed a steady increase with age. A significant correlation was found between D-dimer and FDP test results (χ² = 3836.57, p < 0.001).

D-dimer and FDP test results in South Koreans varied by age and gender. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased testing demand. These findings offer useful insights for diagnosing and treating thrombotic diseases.