What are the consequences of an MCHC value that is too high or too low?
A normal MCHC value is between 19.0 and 22.5 mmol/L. Abnormal MCHC values may indicate anemia or hereditary blood diseases and require further investigation.
MCHC, or Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration, is a measure of the average concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. In this blog, we will discuss what a normal MCHC value is, the consequences of an MCHC value that is too high or too low, and what steps you can take to address abnormalities.
What is a normal MCHC value?
The normal MCHC value is usually between 19.0 and 22.5 mmol/L. A value within this range indicates that your red blood cells contain a healthy concentration of hemoglobin, which is essential for effective oxygen transport in your body. It is important to note that reference values can vary depending on age and gender. At Bloedwaardentest.nl, the reference values applicable to you are always personally reported.
What does an MCHC value that is too low mean?
An MCHC value that is too low, also called hypochromic anemia, can indicate a deficiency of hemoglobin in the red blood cells. This can have several causes, including iron deficiency, chronic diseases and blood loss. The consequences of an MCHC value that is too low can include:
- Fatigue: Lack of sufficient oxygen in body tissues can lead to extreme fatigue.
- Weakness: Less oxygen in the muscles can cause weakness and reduced physical performance.
- Pale skin: Reduced hemoglobin can lead to a paler skin color.
- Shortness of breath: On exertion, lack of oxygen can lead to breathing problems.
- Dizziness: Lack of oxygen to the brain can cause dizziness.
What does an excessively high MCHC value mean?
An excessive MCHC value, also called hyperchromia, can indicate too much hemoglobin in the red blood cells. This is less common and may indicate certain conditions such as spherocytosis, an inherited blood disease in which red blood cells take on an abnormal shape. The consequences of an excessively high MCHC level may include:
- Jaundice: Excessive breakdown of red blood cells can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, which causes jaundice.
- Enlarged spleen: The spleen may become enlarged due to the processing of abnormal red blood cells.
- Fatigue: Although cells contain more hemoglobin, they may be more fragile and break down faster, leading to fatigue.
- Anemia: Despite the higher concentration of hemoglobin, the total amount of functional red blood cells may be reduced, leading to anemia.
The importance of a complete blood count
It is important to note that MCHC cannot be ordered separately; it is part of a complete blood count (CBC). A complete blood count provides a comprehensive understanding of the various components of your blood, such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin and platelets. This test should be looked at in its entirety to get a good picture of your overall health and any abnormalities. It is also important to realize that blood values are snapshots and can vary depending on various factors such as hydration, diet and medical condition.
For more information on what your blood count can say about your resistance, read our comprehensive article: What does your blood count say about your resistance?
The erythrocyte distribution width (EVB), called RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) in English, involves the coefficient of variation of the volume of the erythrocyte population. A normal EVB indicates a homogeneous cell population, while an increased EVB represents an increase in cell size variation. The EVB thus provides a quantification of erythrocyte anisocytosis.
Differentiation of anemia forms from MCV and EVB (RDW)
MCV | RDW | Anemia Form | Possible cause |
---|---|---|---|
Increased | Increased | Macrocytic anemia | Vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency |
Increased | Normal | Macrocytic anemia | Panmyelopathy, displacement of erythropoiesis in bone marrow |
Normal | Increased | Normocytic anemia | Incipient iron deficiency, hemolytic anemia |
Normal | Normal | Normocytic anemia | Chronic diseases, renal failure, inflammation, maldigestion, blood loss |
Lowered | Increased | Microcytic anemia | Iron, copper and vitamin B6 deficiency, hemoglobinopathy |
Lowered | Normal | Microcytic anemia | Thalassemia syndrome |
What can you do in case of abnormal MCHC values?
If your MCHC value falls outside the normal range, it is important to find out the underlying cause. At Bloedwaardentest.nl, you can have several additional tests performed to gain more insight into your blood health, such as:
- Iron profile: To check for iron deficiency or iron-stacking diseases.
- Vitamin B12 and folic acid: These vitamins are essential for the production of healthy red blood cells.
- Liver function tests: because liver problems can contribute to abnormal blood levels.
- Blood count test: To get a complete picture of your red and white blood cells and platelets.
Conclusion
It is important to keep your MCHC value balanced for good health. Regular monitoring through a blood test can help detect and address abnormalities early.