Final answer:
Elevated D dimer levels in a patient's bloodstream may indicate an increased risk of pulmonary embolism, which involves abnormal or excessive clotting disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient with an elevated level of D dimer in the bloodstream may be at increased risk for a pulmonary embolism. D dimer is a small protein fragment that is present in the blood after a blood clot is degraded by fibrinolysis. It is commonly used as a marker of blood clot formation and breakdown in the body. It's important to know that high levels of D dimer can indicate the presence of an abnormal or excessive clotting disorder, such as a pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and allergic reactions to iodinated contrast media are not directly associated with levels of D dimer. Type 2 diabetes, while a significant health concern, is not indicated by elevated D dimer levels but is related to complications arising from prolonged high blood sugar levels and may lead to conditions like diabetic nephropathy.