The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism despite a negative D-dimer assay: the importance of individualised clinical assessment and other investigations

The D-dimer assay is a useful test in the work-up for suspected pulmonary embolism when used alongside a validated risk stratification tool, however this should not replace careful clinical judgement.While typically used to rule out alternative pathology, chest radiographs can occasionally show changes related to pulmonary embolism.