Elevated d-dimer level in acute myeloid leukemia

This case illustrates that D-dimer is elevated in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. A 21-year old lady presented with complaints of menorrhea and fever associated with swelling and bleeding from her gums. Routine laboratory investigations demonstrated an elevated D-dimer of 11.3mg/L. A diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia was made. Peripheral smear showed presence of blast cells and decreased platelets. This case report highlights the mounting evidence that D-dimer is elevated in acute myeloid leukemia and could be useful as a prognostic marker.