MCH is usually measured as a part of blood count and is used to help diagnose anemia.
MCH value shows the amount of hemoglobin contained in one red blood cell. Hemoglobin is a blood protein. Hemoglobin transports oxygen in the body. In anemia, the level of hemoglobin in the blood is lower than normal.
MCH is usually measured as a part of complete blood count and is used to help diagnose anemia.
Reference value for MCH for both (adult) women and men is 27–33%.
Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method.
Low MCH is usually a sign of microcytic anemia. In microcytic anemia, the red blood cells are too small and cannot carry as much hemoglobin as they should.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of microcytic anemia and can be caused, for example, by prolonged blood loss due to heavy menstruation or intestinal bleeding.
MCH may also be lower than normal in hypochromic anemia. In this type of anemia, hemoglobin level is reduced proportionally more than the red blood cell count.
High MCH value is usually a sign of macrocytic anemia. This condition occurs when the blood cells are too large due to factors such as a vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
A high MCH may also be due to the following factors:
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Article updated:
19 February 2024
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