Mean cell haemoglobin concentration
What this test measures
The MCHC is how concentrated the haemoglobin is inside the red blood cells: the haemoglobin divided by the haematocrit. Unlike the MCV and MCH it does not depend on cell size, only on how densely each cell is packed with haemoglobin.
Why doctors request it
It is part of the full blood count. Doctors mainly use it as a check on the other red cell indices, and a high value is one of the pointers towards a group of inherited red cell shape conditions.
What commonly pushes it up
- Hereditary spherocytosis, an inherited red cell shape condition
- Severe dehydration
- Cold agglutinins, antibodies that clump red cells in the tube
- A very high blood fat or protein level interfering with the measurement
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 shifts whenever haemoglobin or haematocrit shifts
- A sample that has sat for a day before analysis reads lower, because the cells swell
- Small differences between analysers are common
About the sample
No fasting needed. Usually read as a check on the other indices rather than on its own.
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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.