MCHC Blood Test Complete Guide

Mean Cell Hemoglobin Concentration

What is MCHC?

MCHC value refers to the average quantity of hemoglobin present in Red Blood Cells (RBCs).

  • When the MCHC value is high, it means red blood cells contain increased hemoglobin.
  • When the MCHC value is low, red blood cells are abnormally small with low hemoglobin. This condition is called microcytic.

What is the Purpose of MCHC Parameter?

MCHC parameter is used to evaluate the severity and cause of anemia.
It helps doctors understand whether hemoglobin levels inside red blood cells are normal or not.

Normal Range of MCHC

The normal range of MCHC in blood is.

33.4 – 35.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL)

Specimen Collection for MCHC Test

  • Collect 3 to 5 ml blood
  • Use an EDTA tube
  • Test is performed using:
  • Automated cell counter
  • Or by formula

MCHC Calculation Formula

MCHC calculation is very simple:

Hemoglobin × 100 ÷ Hematocrit

Example:

  • Patient’s Hemoglobin = 14
  • Hematocrit = 42

So:

14 × 100 ÷ 42 = 33.3 g/dL

Causes of High MCHC

Following are the causes of high MCHC in blood.

  • Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Hereditary spherocytosis
  • Severe burns
  • Liver disease
  • Overactive thyroid
  • Chemotherapy drugs

Causes of Low MCHC

Following are the causes of low MCHC in blood.

  • Lack of iron
  • Celiac disease
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Peptic ulcers
  • Hemolysis
  • Hookworm infections
  • Lead poisoning
  • Cancers that cause internal blood loss