Why would MCH levels be low?

Low MCH levels usually occur as a result of iron deficiency that has led to anemia. Doctors may recommend that individuals add more iron and vitamin B6 to their diet. Eating vitamin C and fiber, along with foods that contain iron, may also help increase the MCH levels.

Is it bad if your MCH is low?

Low MCH. A low mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) means that your red blood cells contain less hemoglobin than normal. This usually also means they are smaller than normal (microcytic) [1]. People with small red blood cells (microcytosis) often do not show any symptoms unless their anemia is severe.

What does MCHC mean in blood test results?

A similar measure to MCH is something doctors call “mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration” (MCHC). MCHC checks the average amount of hemoglobin in a group of red blood cells. Your doctor may use both measurements to help in a diagnosis of anemia.

Can a hematologist diagnose lupus?

Hematologists, who are specialists in blood disorders, are often involved in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with lupus.

When should I be concerned about low MCHC?

MCHC results are most helpful when used in conjunction with other red blood cell indices, especially MCV. For instance, low MCHC and low MCV could indicate iron-deficiency anemia, thalassemia, sideroblastic anemia, or lead poisoning.

What is considered a low MCHC level?

The reference range for MCHC in adults is 33.4–35.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL). If your MCHC value is below 33.4 grams per deciliter, you have low MCHC. Low MCHC values occur if you have anemia due to iron deficiency.

What is MCHC on lab work?

MCHC stands for mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. It’s the concentration of hemoglobin in the body’s red blood cells. MCHC is calculated by automated cell counters and may be reported as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test.

What can cause high MCH levels?

High MCH value can often be caused by anemia due to a deficiency of B vitamins, particularly B-12 and folate . Both of these vitamins are required by your body in order to make red blood cells.

What does a high MCV lab mean?

A high MCV count simply means that there is greater than normal RBC volume in the blood. If the anemia is present, the condition is called macrocytic anemia and in which case the MCV result could reach up to 150 femtoliters.

What does a low MCV indicate?

Low levels of MCV are an indication that your red blood cells are smaller in volume and are therefore not able to hold a sufficient quantity of hemoglobin in them. Having a low MCV level means that you might be a patient of thalassemia or have been suffering from a disorder known as iron deficiency anemia.