What is a MCH Blood Test

What is a MCH blood test? MCH stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin. A MCH blood test is a test that is conducted to find out the average weight of hemoglobin that is present inside a red blood cell. This is the answer to your question of “what is a MCH blood test”. A CBC or a complete blood count can be used to monitor MCH levels in the blood. The main function of hemoglobin is to carry oxygen to the blood. Hemoglobin is made up of a group of amino acids that contain iron atoms. These iron atoms are responsible for the red color of hemoglobin. MCH blood test results help a doctor to determine whether optimal oxygen levels are being carried up from the lungs to other parts of the body. Depending on whether the results are high or low, the doctor can then diagnose possible disorders and then recommend a course of treatment. A low MCH is indicative of an iron deficiency whereas a high MCH means that there is too much hemoglobin present which results in an insufficient supply of oxygen to the blood.

Now that you have the answer to “what is a MCH blood test”, let us look at how this test is carried out. This test is a blood test and a sample in obtained by removing blood from your vein. A blood sample may also be taken from your fingertip by pricking it with a sharp instrument. There are no specific precautions that need to be taken prior to this test. Doctors may advise you not to consume any fatty meals before this test.

MCH Blood Test Normal Range and Results

MCH is calculated by multiplying the total amount of hemoglobin in the sample by ten, and then dividing the result by the number of red blood cells present. The MCH blood test normal range is 27-33 pg for adults. Optimal MCH readings are 30 pg. If the MCH blood test results are below 27, it could be indicative of anemia. If your MCH blood test shows high results i.e. above 33pg, it could be due to possible thyroid issues. High levels of MCH could indicate macrocytic anemia, which can be caused by insufficient vitamin B12.  Another cause of macrocytic anemia could be insufficient folic acid.

Treatment of high MCH blood levels will depend on the reason the level is high. Treatment will then be started accordingly.