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What is Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) in a Blood Test?

What Is MCHC in a Blood Test?

What is the Need for an MCHC Blood Test?

When Should You Get an MCHC Test?

Things to Do Before an MCHC Test

What is the Procedure for an MCHC Test?

How is MCHC in a Blood Report Calculated?

How to Read Your MCHC Test Report?

Understanding the results of an MCHC test can give you insight into how healthy your red blood cells are generally. Knowing these figures and their meanings is important for evaluating any possible complications or conditions that could arise from them.

Step 1: Locate MCHC Value: Search for the Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) value on the report you received after testing. It shows how much haemoglobin is in every red cell on average.

Step 2: Compare to Reference Range: Normally, it is between 32-36 g/dL. Use the below table to interpret your MCHC result:

MCHC Value Interpretation
Normal If your MCHC rate falls into a normal range, it implies that your red blood cells contain normal levels of haemoglobin and work normally.
High Conditions such as spherocytosis or autoimmune hemolytic anaemia can cause higher-than-normal values, which means that your red blood cells are more concentrated or have abnormal features.
Low Lower-than-average MCHC might show diseases like iron-deficiency anaemia or thalassemia, where insufficient haemoglobin is present in the erythrocytes.

Normal Range of MCHC Test

The normal range for MCHC typically falls between 32 and 36 grams per decilitre (g/dL) for both males and females. Anything above 36 g/dL might suggest high haemoglobin concentrations, which are known to be accompanied by spherocytosis and chronic dehydration.

In contrast, anything below 32 g/dL can indicate low haemoglobin concentrations, often associated with conditions like iron deficiency anaemia or thalassemia.

S. No. Range (g/dL) Status
1 32.0 - 36.0 Normal
2 Below 32.0 Low MCHC (Possible anaemia or iron deficiency)
3 Above 36.0 High MCHC (Possible spherocytosis or dehydration)

Who Should Take an MCHC Test?

What Should You Do if You Have High MCHC?

What are the Causes of High MCHC?

Symptoms of High MCHC

If your MCHC levels are outside the normal range, it may indicate underlying health concerns. Some common symptoms of high MCHC include:

Symptom Description
Fatigue Persistent tiredness and a general lack of energy that doesn’t improve with rest.
Paleness Noticeable loss of skin colour or an unusual paleness of the skin and mucous membranes.
Weakness General physical weakness or reduced strength, making everyday tasks difficult.
Jaundice Yellowing of the skin and eyes is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
Chest Pain Discomfort or pain in the chest area may vary from sharp to dull and aching.
Fever Elevated body temperature above the normal range, often accompanied by chills.
Fainting Sudden loss of consciousness or dizziness can lead to temporary loss of awareness.
Abdominal Discomfort Pain or unease in the abdominal region may be sharp or cramp-like.

What Should You Do if You Have Low MCHC?

What Are the Causes of Low MCHC?

Symptoms of Low MCHC

If your MCHC levels are found to be lower than normal, it may point to various health issues. The most common symptoms of low MCHC include:

Symptom Description
Fatigue and Weakness Persistent tiredness and a general lack of strength make it difficult to perform daily activities.
Shortness of Breath Difficulty breathing or a sensation of not getting enough air, especially during physical exertion.
Pale Gums and Skin Noticeable paleness of the gums and skin due to reduced haemoglobin levels.
Irregular or Fast Heartbeat Abnormal heart rhythms or a rapid heartbeat are often felt as palpitations or fluttering in the chest.
Cold Feet or Hands A feeling of coldness in the extremities, such as feet and hands, due to poor circulation.
Headache or Dizziness Persistent headaches or feelings of lightheadedness and unsteadiness.
Chest Pain Discomfort or pain in the chest area may range from mild to severe.

Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) is an essential parameter in a blood test that gives crucial information about the amount of haemoglobin present in your red blood cells. Knowing the MCHC readings will help you evaluate how healthy your blood levels are and spot any instances of anaemia or other blood conditions. 

It is therefore necessary to continuously check the MCHC levels accompanied by other results from a blood test. This can help properly manage and treat their condition, resulting in good health and wellness at all times.

FAQs about MCHC in Blood Tests