Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) in Red Blood Cells
This test measures the amount of hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells) packed into each individual red blood cell.
["MCHC helps diagnose conditions affecting red blood cell health, such as anemia or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59468-9
- Short code
- MCH EntSub RBC
- Synonyms
- MCH EntSub RBC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is MCHC Used For?
Doctors use MCHC to assess whether your red blood cells are carrying enough oxygen. It can help identify types of anemia, such as microcytic (small cells) or normocytic (normal-sized cells) anemia, or conditions like hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then analyzed in a lab to measure the concentration of hemoglobin within each red blood cell. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your test order.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
Results may be reported as below, at, or above a reference range. Low MCHC can suggest conditions like iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, or certain liver diseases. High MCHC may indicate conditions such as hereditary spherocytosis or severe dehydration.
Common Conditions Affecting MCHC
Changes in MCHC are often linked to underlying health issues. For example, low levels can be due to insufficient iron, vitamin B12, or folate, while high levels may result from chronic diseases or fluid imbalances.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
MCHC
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the typical reference ranges?
Can I prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy