What is mean red blood cell hemoglobin mass (E-MCH)?
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 values for MCH
Reference value for E-MCH for both (adult) women and men is 27–33%.
Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method. Puhti samples are taken and analysed at the laboratories of Mehiläinen.
Low E-MCH value
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 E-MCH value
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:
Understand your well-being – here’s how measurement works
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You can choose a ready-made test package, include additional tests or plan your own set of tests. All the tests can be ordered without a doctor’s referral.
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You can view your results quickly and easily on the Oma Puhti report. You will get an easy-to-read report of your results.
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