European journal of clinical investigation
-
Eur. J. Clin. Invest. · Aug 2019
Meta AnalysisA revised systematic review and meta-analysis on the effect of statins on D-dimer levels.
D-dimers are generated during endogenous fibrinolysis of a blood clot and have a central role in diagnostic algorithms to rule out venous thromboembolism. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, more commonly called statins, are known to have effects independent of LDL-cholesterol lowering, including antithrombotic properties. An effect of statins on D-dimer levels has been reported in a prior systematic review and meta-analysis, but methodological shortcomings might have led to an overestimated effect. To re-evaluate the association between statins and D-dimer levels, we systematically reviewed all published articles on the influence of statins on D-dimer levels and conducted a novel meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration number CRD42017058932). ⋯ This meta-analysis suggests an association between use of statins and reduction of D-dimer levels, independent of treatment duration and type of statin used. This effect is small but robust, and should be interpreted with caution.