A complete blood count (CBC) is a common diagnostic tool that provides a snapshot of various blood components. Among these is the Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration, or MCHC. This value assesses the average concentration of hemoglobin within your red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout your body. Understanding MCHC helps healthcare providers evaluate red blood cell health and can offer insights into potential underlying conditions.
Understanding MCHC Values
A low MCHC value indicates that your red blood cells have a lower-than-normal concentration of hemoglobin. This condition is often referred to as hypochromia, meaning the red blood cells appear paler than usual under a microscope. Hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein that gives red blood cells their characteristic red color and enables them to carry oxygen. A reduced concentration of hemoglobin means these cells are less efficient at oxygen transport, which can impact oxygen delivery to your body’s tissues and organs.
Common Reasons for Low MCHC
The most frequent cause of low MCHC is iron deficiency anemia. Iron is a component of hemoglobin, and without enough iron, the body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin for healthy red blood cells. This leads to red blood cells that are paler and often smaller than normal, a condition known as microcytic hypochromic anemia. Iron deficiency can result from inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption (e.g., celiac disease or Crohn’s disease), or chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstrual periods or gastrointestinal bleeding).
Other conditions can also lead to a low MCHC. Thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder, affects the body’s ability to produce normal hemoglobin, leading to hypochromic and microcytic red blood cells. Lead poisoning is another cause, as lead interferes with hemoglobin synthesis, resulting in reduced production. Anemia of chronic disease, which can occur with long-standing infections, inflammatory conditions, kidney disease, or cancer, can also present with a low MCHC. In this type of anemia, the body may have iron stores, but inflammation prevents its proper utilization for hemoglobin production.
Accompanying Signs and Symptoms
When MCHC is low, symptoms are typically related to the underlying condition, most commonly anemia, and stem from the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Common signs include fatigue and general weakness, as the body’s tissues are not receiving enough oxygen. Individuals might also notice paleness of the skin and gums due to the lower concentration of hemoglobin.
Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity, dizziness, or light-headedness. Cold hands and feet are also frequently reported, reflecting poor oxygen delivery to the extremities. While these symptoms can indicate low MCHC, they are non-specific and can be associated with many other health issues. Therefore, a low MCHC reading warrants further medical evaluation to determine the cause.
What to Do Next
A low MCHC result on a blood test signifies the need to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A doctor will typically order additional tests to identify the specific cause. These often include iron studies, which measure serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, and ferritin levels to assess the body’s iron stores. A complete blood count with differential and reticulocyte count can provide more detailed information about red blood cells and bone marrow activity.
If thalassemia is suspected, genetic testing or hemoglobin electrophoresis may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Management strategies depend on the identified underlying cause. For iron deficiency, dietary changes to include more iron-rich foods are often recommended, alongside iron supplementation. Addressing any underlying conditions, such as chronic blood loss or malabsorption issues, is important to resolve the low MCHC. Following medical advice and treatment plans is important for improving MCHC levels and overall health.