FDP (Fibronogen Degradation Products)

Fibrinogen degradation products (FDPs) are the residual substance left in the bloodstream after the blood clots dissolve in the body. The fibrinolytic system is responsible for managing and regulating clot dissolutions. When you injure yourself and bleed profusely, the wounded blood vessels constrict themselves to stop bleeding and ensure quick healing. This process is known as hemostasis.

During hemostasis, the platelets gather together and surround the wound site, creating a platelet plug. Wound site clotting also leads to the production of fibrin threads known as the net. This net stays in its place until the injury heals. After it heals, the clot slows down, breaks apart and dissolves. Upon dissolution, it leads to a release of fragments of protein. These fragments are known as fibrinogen degradation products. If your body cannot ensure the proper dissolution of clots, it may lead to an abnormal level of fibrinogen degradation products.

The FDP test, also known as the fibrinogen degradation products test, fibrin breakdown products test, or the fibrin split products (FSPs) test, measures the level of fibrinogen degradation products in the blood. It helps adjudge whether or not one suffers from any clotting disorder.

If your test results indicate an elevated level of fibrinogen degradation products, it could be a sign of blood clots in the lungs, heart disease, cancer, DVT, kidney disease, liver disease or stroke. It also indicates disseminated intravascular coagulation, wherein several clots form throughout the body, causing a blockage in small blood vessels.

High levels of FDP could be due to high blood pressure and may also help predict the chances of dementia, cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.

Apollo 24|7 offers a quick, effortless and at-home fibrinogen degradation products test which helps:

• Determine if you suffer from deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, kidney disease, leukaemia or stroke.
• Detect any other clotting disorder or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• Assess if your pre-existing treatment for clotting disorder is effective in controlling the symptoms.

Once your test results come, your doctor can devise an effective treatment plan. While there is no exact cure for this condition, there are some preventive tips you can follow to control the symptoms. The following can help maintain adequate FDP levels:

• Quitting smoking tobacco.
• Drinking alcohol in moderation.
• Adjusting your diet to ensure steady weight loss.
• Controlling your stress and maintaining the serum cortisol levels.

However, before making specific lifestyle changes, it is essential to take the first step forward and get an FDP test.