Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

What it is

Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration, often shortened to MCHC, is a measurement found within a Full Blood Count (FBC) blood test. It tells us about the average amount of haemoglobin packed inside each of your red blood cells. Haemoglobin is the vital protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Think of red blood cells as tiny delivery vans, and haemoglobin as the oxygen cargo they carry. MCHC is like measuring how full each van is, on average.

The typical range for MCHC in adults in the UK is between 320 and 360 grams per litre (g/l). This is a guide, and your doctor will consider your individual results alongside other factors.

Why it matters

MCHC provides valuable information about the health and function of your red blood cells. When MCHC levels are within the normal range, it generally suggests that your red blood cells are adequately filled with haemoglobin, and therefore, are likely to be effectively carrying oxygen around your body.

If your MCHC is consistently outside the normal range, it can sometimes be an indicator that something is affecting the production or health of your red blood cells. This can, in turn, impact how well your body receives the oxygen it needs. For example, if red blood cells aren't carrying enough haemoglobin, they might not be able to deliver oxygen as efficiently.

What can cause it to be high or low

There are various reasons why your MCHC might be higher or lower than the usual range. It's important to remember that a single abnormal reading doesn't automatically mean there's a serious problem, and your doctor will look at the bigger picture.

Higher than normal MCHC (above 360 g/l): This is less common than a low MCHC. It can sometimes be seen in conditions where red blood cells are smaller than usual but are packed with a normal or even slightly increased amount of haemoglobin. Examples that might be discussed with your GP include certain types of anaemia, such as hereditary spherocytosis, where red blood cells are abnormally shaped and more concentrated in haemoglobin. Sometimes, dehydration can also temporarily affect MCHC readings.

Lower than normal MCHC (below 320 g/l): This is more frequently encountered and often points towards a reduced amount of haemoglobin within the red blood cells. This can be associated with several types of anaemia. The most common cause is iron deficiency anaemia, where your body doesn't have enough iron to produce sufficient haemoglobin. Other possibilities that might be explored with your doctor include vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia or folate deficiency anaemia, both of which can affect red blood cell production and their haemoglobin content. Certain chronic illnesses can also sometimes lead to lower MCHC levels.

Lifestyle factors that may help

While MCHC is primarily influenced by underlying health conditions and nutrient levels, certain lifestyle choices can support overall red blood cell health and may be beneficial to discuss with your GP.

• Diet: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for producing healthy red blood cells. Foods that contain iron, vitamin B12, and folate are particularly important. Discussing your dietary intake with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can help ensure you're getting adequate amounts of these vital components.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is important for maintaining blood volume and can influence various blood test results.
• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and may affect red blood cell production. Moderating alcohol consumption is generally advised for overall health.
• Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact circulation and oxygen transport, which can have broader effects on your body's systems, including blood health.

Questions to discuss with your GP

If your MCHC result is outside the normal range, or if you have concerns about your red blood cell health, your GP is the best person to guide you. Here are some questions you might consider discussing with them:

• What does my MCHC result mean in the context of my overall health and other blood test results?
• Could my MCHC level be related to any symptoms I've been experiencing, such as fatigue or shortness of breath?
• Are there any specific dietary changes or supplements you would recommend to support my red blood cell health?
• What further investigations, if any, might be necessary to understand the cause of my MCHC level?
• How often should my MCHC levels be monitored?
• Are there any lifestyle adjustments you would suggest based on my MCHC result?