Understanding MCH blood test
The MCH blood test is an essential diagnostic test that measures the average hemoglobin content of the blood.
Hemoglobin carries oxygen to the tissues and organs in the body. A lower-than-normal hemoglobin level can indicate a blood disorder called anemia. On the other hand, a higher-than-normal hemoglobin level can indicate several serious conditions, such as cancer or sleep apnea.
This article discusses the MCH blood test, when it is recommended, what it measures, and more.
What is the MCH Blood Test?
MCH stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin. It indicates the average amount of hemoglobin in a red blood cell. Hemoglobin is a protein that transfers oxygen around the body.
An MCH test is usually a part of a complete blood panel (CBC). A CBC tests red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
MCH is calculated by dividing the hemoglobin obtained by the number of red blood cells.
Why is an MCH Blood Test Done?
A doctor can recommend an MCH blood test for several reasons:
- Monitoring Overall Health
An MCH blood test is typically recommended as part of a routine health checkup to monitor for various disorders, such as anemia.
- Finding the Cause of Certain Symptoms
When a patient shows certain symptoms during a medical exam, a doctor can recommend an MCH blood test to look for anemia or a cancer called polycythemia vera. A CBC panel and MCH blood test can help identify these or other medical conditions.
These symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Monitoring a Medical Condition
The blood count MCH test is also recommended for anemia or polycythemia vera patients. This test can help doctors plan the treatment of these conditions.
How is an MCH Blood Test Done?
An MCH blood test is usually a part of a CBC panel. For the test, a blood sample is collected and tested in the laboratory.
Fasting is usually optional if the CBC is only done to obtain an MCH reading. However, a doctor can recommend taking blood samples in a fasted state, i.e., not eating anything before the test for a certain amount of time for certain other conditions.
How to Interpret the Results of an MCH Blood Test?
MCH levels are measured in picograms (pg) per red blood cell. The following table presents the low, high and normal HCH levels:
| MCH Range | MCH Level (pg) |
| Low | Under 27 |
| Normal | 27-31 |
| High | Above 31 |
For newborn children, the normal MCH level range is 32 pg to 34 pg.
What does Low MCH Level Mean?
A low MCH level means low hemoglobin per red blood cell.
Low MCH is caused by:
- Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron is essential for hemoglobin production. The body absorbs a small amount of iron through food. Low levels of iron in the body cause iron deficiency anemia. Some causes of iron deficiency in the body include eating a diet low in iron, major surgery, or blood loss.
- Thalassemia
Thalassemia is a rare genetic condition in which the production of hemoglobin in the body is limited. Some symptoms of low MCH caused due to anemia are:
- Chest pain
- Fast heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Headache
- Abdominal swelling
- Dark colored urine
What does High MCH Level mean?
An MCH high blood test levels indicate high amount of hemoglobin in a red blood cell. It can be caused by-
- Some kinds of liver disease
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Some blood cancers
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency (causes different types of anemia)
- Hypothyroidism
- Some medications, such as chemotherapy medication, antivirals and antibiotics
The symptoms of high MCH caused by vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include:
- Tingling feeling in your hands and feet
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gas and bloating
- Mental problems such as confusion and depression
- Fast heartbeat
Other symptoms of high MCH caused by folate deficiency anemia include:
- Diarrhea
- Low appetite
- Irritability
- Sensitive or smooth tongue
An MCH blood test for low levels is an essential diagnostic blood test for routine checkups and for identifying certain health conditions such as anemia. If an individual presents with high or low MCH symptoms mentioned here, they should consult a doctor immediately and book an MCH test at Dr Lal PathLabs.
FAQs
1. When to worry about MCH levels?
The MCH blood test normal range in adults of all ages is 27-31pg. MCH levels lower than 27pg can be caused by iron deficiency anemia. MCH levels over 31pg can be caused due to B12 deficiency anemia or certain other conditions. Low or high MCH level require medical attention.
2. What diet is suitable for someone with high MCH levels?
Increasing vitamin B12 and folic acid in the diet through supplements and natural foods is a good way to manage high MCH levels.
