MCHC
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures the average concentration of hemoglobin within red blood cells. Unlike MCH (total hemoglobin per cell), MCHC reflects hemoglobin density — how concentrated the hemoglobin is within the cell volume. It is calculated as hemoglobin divided by hematocrit.
Why it matters: MCHC is one of the most tightly regulated blood values. A high MCHC is relatively uncommon and fairly specific — it is seen in hereditary spherocytosis and some autoimmune hemolytic anemias. A low MCHC is associated with hypochromic anemia (such as iron deficiency or thalassemia).
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is MCHC?
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures the average concentration of hemoglobin within red blood cells. Unlike MCH (total hemoglobin per cell), MCHC reflects hemoglobin density — how concentrated the hemoglobin is within the cell volume. It is calculated as hemoglobin divided by hematocrit.
What might a high or low MCHC mean?
MCHC is one of the most tightly regulated blood values. A high MCHC is relatively uncommon and fairly specific — it is seen in hereditary spherocytosis and some autoimmune hemolytic anemias. A low MCHC is associated with hypochromic anemia (such as iron deficiency or thalassemia).
What is the typical reference range for MCHC?
The general-population reference range shown here is 320 – 360 g/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect MCHC?
It may be higher with: Hereditary spherocytosis, Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Severe dehydration, Cold agglutinin disease (artifactual). It may be lower with: Iron deficiency (most common), Thalassemia, Sideroblastic anemia, Lead poisoning.