Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
Type:
Calculated value
MCH represents the average quantity of hemoglobin in each red blood cell
It helps determine how effectively your red blood cells can carry oxygen throughout the body.
Primary Function:
Normal Values:
27 - 34 pg
Low level could suggest certain types of anemia, often caused by deficiencies in nutrients such as copper or vitamin B6.
Symptoms/Pathology in Deficiency:
High MCH levels can indicate a type of anemia where red blood cells are larger and contain more hemoglobin than normal. This condition is often associated with deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folic acid. In some cases, factors like alcoholism can raise MCH levels by impairing vitamin absorption and affecting red blood cell production.
Symptoms/Pathology in Increase: