MCH Level

MCH Level (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin)

MCH Level, An MCH value refers to the average quantity of hemoglobin present in a single red blood cell. When the MCH value is high, The red blood cell is considered abnormally large, called macrocytic. When the MCH value is low, The red blood cell is said to be abnormally small, called microcytic.

Purpose of Mean Cell Hemoglobin(MCH)

• This parameter is used to diagnose Anemia.
• The main purpose of this test is to calculate the amount of hemoglobin in an individual red blood cell.

Normal Value of MCH in blood

• 27.5 to 33.2 picograms (pg)

Calculation of MCH

• MCH = Hemoglobin Value x 10 divided by Red Blood Cells Count
• Example: 12 x 10 divided by 5.0
• MCH = 24 pg

Causes of High MCH(Mean Cell Hemoglobin)

1. Vitamin B-12 Deficiency
2. Deficiency of folic acid
3. Liver disease
4. Alcoholism
5. Estrogen Medication 

High MCH Levels: High MCH levels, also known as hyperchromia, can be a sign of macrocytic anemia, where the red blood cells are larger than normal and contain more hemoglobin. This can be caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folic acid, or it can be due to certain medical conditions like liver disease or hypothyroidism

Causes of Low MCH (Mean Cell Hemoglobin)

1. Iron Deficiency Anemia
2. Thalassemia 

Low MCH Levels: Low MCH levels, also known as hypochromia, can indicate conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Symptoms of low MCH levels can include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.

Sample Collection for MCH Test

• Collect 3 to 5 ml of blood in an EDTA tube.
• The test will be performed using an automated cell counter or formula.