Systematic review: D-dimer to predict recurrent disease after stopping anticoagulant therapy for unprovoked venous thromboembolism.

BACKGROUND: The optimal duration of anticoagulation for a first episode of unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE) is uncertain. Methods for predicting risk for recurrence may identify low-risk patients who are less likely to benefit from prolonged anticoagulation. PURPOSE: To synthesize evidence evaluating the value of D-dimer as a predictor of recurrent disease in patients who have stopped anticoagulant therapy after a first unprovoked VTE.