Friday, February, 10, 2012

RBC indices

Table of Contents

  • MCHC = Hgb/Hct
  • MCH = Hgb/RBC count

The MCV is measured directly by a machine.


How to prepare for the test

No special preparation is necessary.


How the test will feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.


Why the test is performed

RBCs transport hemoglobin which, in turn, transports oxygen. The amount of oxygen tissues receive depends on the amount and function of RBCs and hemoglobin.

The MCV reflects the size of red blood cells. The MCH and MCHC reflect the hemoglobin content of red blood cells. These RBC measures are used to diagnose types of anemia.

Anemias are defined based on cell size (MCV) and amount of Hgb (MCH).

  • MCV less than lower limit of normal: microcytic anemia
  • MCV within normal range: normocytic anemia
  • MCV greater than upper limit of normal: macrocytic anemia
  • MCH less than lower limit of normal: hypochromic anemia
  • MCH within normal range: normochromic anemia
  • MCH greater than upper limit of normal: hyperchromic anemia

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Review Date: 02/09/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)