MCHC is a measurement in a standard Complete Blood Count (CBC) test. It indicates the concentration of hemoglobin within red blood cells. Understanding a low MCHC result can help clarify potential health conditions and guide further medical evaluation.
What MCHC Measures
MCHC measures the average concentration of hemoglobin within red blood cells. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that transports oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. The typical normal reference range for MCHC values falls between 32 to 36 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or 320 to 360 grams per liter (g/L).
Interpreting a Low MCHC Result
A low MCHC value indicates red blood cells contain a lower concentration of hemoglobin than normal. This condition is termed hypochromia, meaning the red blood cells appear paler. Often, these cells are also smaller, known as microcytic. A low MCHC frequently points towards hypochromic microcytic anemia, where both color and size are affected due to insufficient hemoglobin production.
Common Reasons for Low MCHC
One of the most frequent causes of a low MCHC is iron deficiency anemia. Iron is a fundamental component of hemoglobin, and a shortage limits the body’s ability to produce enough. This deficiency can arise from insufficient dietary intake, poor absorption, or chronic blood loss from conditions like heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Other conditions can also lead to a low MCHC. Thalassemias, inherited blood disorders, affect hemoglobin chain production, reducing hemoglobin concentration. Sideroblastic anemia, a rare disorder, involves the body’s inability to properly utilize iron to form hemoglobin, leading to iron accumulation but insufficient functional hemoglobin. Exposure to lead can also impair hemoglobin synthesis, contributing to low MCHC.
Next Steps for Low MCHC
A low MCHC result is a laboratory finding, not a definitive diagnosis on its own, and usually prompts further investigation by a healthcare provider. The provider will review the complete blood count (CBC) to assess other red blood cell indices, such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH, to gain a comprehensive picture. They will also consider the individual’s medical history, symptoms, and any other relevant health factors.
To identify the underlying cause of a low MCHC, additional diagnostic tests are often ordered. These may include specific iron studies, such as serum iron, ferritin (which indicates iron stores), and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). In some cases, a hemoglobin electrophoresis might be performed to check for hemoglobin disorders like thalassemia. Treatment for low MCHC depends entirely on the identified cause. For instance, iron deficiency anemia is often managed with iron supplementation and dietary adjustments to increase iron intake. Management of chronic conditions or specific genetic disorders will involve targeted therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and management is important.