The positive associations observed between the SMD of d‐dimer concentrations and other markers of thrombosis and coagulation (fibrinogen and PAI‐1) further support a state of hypercoagulability and increased risk of thrombosis in various RDs, whereas the positive associations with established inflammatory biomarkers (CRP and ESR) are in line with the results of studies reporting an increased risk of VTE in RA and SLE patients with increased disease activity.41, 42, 43. This evidence concerns the gene SERPINE1 and systemic lupus erythematosus.