Your blood test result is high if the MCH is above 34 picograms per red blood cell, which may indicate any of the following conditions: Macrocytic anemia is a medical condition wherein a person has a fewer number of RBCs. However, the cell is larger compared to the normal size. Thus, it contains more hemoglobin.
To calculate the amount of hemoglobin in an individual red blood cell. The MCH test is one of several tests that are used to diagnose and classify different types of anemia.
80 femtoliters (fl) to 100 fl
Test result interpretation
The Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) are two parameters measured in a complete blood count (CBC) test. These parameters provide information about the hemoglobin content and concentration within red blood cells (erythrocytes). Here's how to interpret the results of MCHC and MCH tests:
Normal Ranges:
The normal range for MCHC is typically between 31% and 37%.
The normal range for MCH is typically between 27 to 31 picograms (pg).
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC):
MCHC represents the average concentration of hemoglobin within red blood cells.
Interpretation:
Normal MCHC: A normal MCHC value suggests that the hemoglobin concentration within red blood cells is within the expected range.
High MCHC: An elevated MCHC may indicate conditions such as hereditary spherocytosis, sickle cell disease, or artifactually due to red blood cell dehydration during sample processing.
Low MCHC: A decreased MCHC may indicate conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, sideroblastic anemia, or chronic diseases.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH):
MCH measures the average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell.
Interpretation:
Normal MCH: A normal MCH value indicates that the amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell is within the expected range.
High MCH: An elevated MCH may be seen in conditions such as macrocytic anemias (e.g., megaloblastic anemia, liver disease) or in individuals with high red blood cell turnover.
Low MCH: A decreased MCH may be seen in conditions such as microcytic anemias (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia) or in individuals with low hemoglobin levels.
Clinical Correlation:
Interpretation of MCHC and MCH values should be done in conjunction with other parameters of the CBC, such as hemoglobin level, hematocrit, red blood cell count, and red cell distribution width (RDW), as well as the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory findings.
Additional tests or evaluations may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of abnormal MCHC and MCH values and guide appropriate management.
Further Evaluation:
Abnormal MCHC and MCH values may prompt further diagnostic testing, such as iron studies, peripheral blood smear examination, vitamin B12 and folate levels, or bone marrow aspiration, depending on the suspected underlying cause of the anemia or abnormality.