What is Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is MCHC?
It is defined as the average concentration of haemoglobin inside our red blood cells. Haemoglobin in the RBCs carries oxygen to all the organs.
Also Read: Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
What is the normal value of MCHC?
The normal value of MCHC in adults is 32-36 g/dl
What is the purpose of the MCHC test?
The main purpose of the test is to see whether the RBCs are carrying an appropriate amount of Hb or not. It is one of the tests to check the health and functioning of RBCs to check various disorders.
What causes lower MCHC?
The main cause is anaemia. Other conditions causing lower MCHC are:
- Microcytic anemia
- Crohn’s disease
- Blood loss due to long menstrual cycle
- Cancer (in rare cases)
- Parasitic infections Like Hookworm infection
- Lead Poisoning
What causes High MCHC levels?
Higher MCHC levels occur in conditions in which RBCs are destroyed easily and are fragile. Some of the causes are:
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- Macrocytic anemia
- Overactive Thyroid
- Liver disease
- Severe burns
- Hereditary spherocytosis
- Certain medications like immunosuppressants or chemotherapy
What are the symptoms of low MCHC?
There is a no. Symptoms related to it are usually experienced due to anaemia. People with slightly low MCHC might not notice any symptoms at all. A few of them are:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Bruising
- Weakness
- Loss of stamina
- Dizziness
What are the symptoms of high MCHC?
There are various conditions related to high MCHC whose symptoms vary accordingly and are as follows:
- Autoimmune hemolytic anaemia- fatigue, rapid heartbeat, fainting, abdominal discomfort.
- Macrocytic anaemia -brittle hair and nails, memory loss, loss of appetite, diarrhoea.
- Liver disease-vomiting, abdominal pain and nausea
- Hereditary spherocytosis- Anemia, gallstones
- Overactive thyroid- Sweating, palpitations, excessive hunger, restlessness
Is this test safe?
There is no side effect of this test but there might be slight bruising at the site from where blood is drawn.
