Mean cell haemoglobin
What this test measures
The mean cell haemoglobin is the average amount of haemoglobin inside each red blood cell, in picograms. It is calculated from the haemoglobin and the red cell count. It tends to move with the mean cell volume: small cells usually carry less haemoglobin and large cells more.
Why doctors request it
It is part of the full blood count and is read alongside the MCV. A low value is one of the pointers doctors use towards low iron or thalassaemia trait, and a high value towards low B12 or folate.
What commonly pushes it up
- Low vitamin B12 or folate
- Alcohol
- Liver disease
- An underactive thyroid
- Some medicines that enlarge red cells
What commonly pushes it down
- Low iron
- Thalassaemia trait
- Long-term inflammatory illness
- Some inherited red cell conditions
Everyday reasons for a value outside the range
- It is a calculated value, so it moves whenever haemoglobin or red cell count moves
- Small differences between analysers are common
About the sample
No fasting needed. Changes slowly over weeks to months.
Upload a photo or PDF and see every line against the range your lab printed, explained in plain English. First report free.
Read my report freeThis is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.