A low mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) means red blood cells do not have enough hemoglobin. If a blood test shows MCHC levels, this may indicate anemia.
Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein. It is responsible for the red color in blood and for circulating oxygen around the body. The lack of oxygen caused by a low hemoglobin concentration may cause fatigue and other anemia symptoms.
The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) test is a standard component of the complete blood count (CBC) test, and the MCHC value can help assess the severity and cause of anemia.
Low hemoglobin may help a healthcare professional determine the cause of a person’s anemia. Treatment can depend on the cause and type of anemia.
Read on to learn more about low MCHC levels, including the possible causes and symptoms, treatment options, and more.
Low MCHC occurs when red blood cells do not have enough hemoglobin. This can lead to anemia.
Conditions and factors that can cause low levels of hemoglobin and anemia include:
- pregnancy
- menstruation
- infections
- conditions affecting the intestines
- blood loss
Chronic conditions that increase the likelihood of low MCHC and anemia include:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- liver disease
- thyroid disease
- kidney disease
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- cancer
The following types of anemia are associated with a low hemoglobin concentration.
Iron deficiency anemia
Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by an iron-deficient diet or an inability to absorb iron. When less iron is available for red blood cell development, the red blood cells become smaller and paler.
Pernicious anemia
Pernicious anemia can be caused by a diet lacking in vitamin B12. Pernicious anemia also affects people who cannot absorb vitamin B12.
Aplastic anemia
Aplastic anemia is characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Hemolytic anemia
Hemolytic anemia happens when red blood cells are removed from the body before the end of their life span and are not replaced quickly enough by the bone marrow.
A slightly low hemoglobin concentration does not always produce noticeable symptoms and may not always be a sign of illness.
Some people are unaware that they have low hemoglobin until they have a routine blood screening.
Other people may develop noticeable symptoms, including:
- weakness and fatigue
- shortness of breath
- pale skin and gums
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- cold hands or feet
- dizziness or headache
- lack of concentration
- chest pain
Low MCHC levels can help diagnose anemia, but further tests are usually necessary to help determine the cause of low hemoglobin and the type of anemia.
Doctors usually diagnose anemia when the hemoglobin value is
A doctor may also check values such as:
- vitamin B12 and folate
- ferritin and iron saturation
Folate and vitamin B12 help the body produce red blood cells. Ferritin is an iron-containing blood protein, while iron saturation is the amount of iron that is available to use.
If internal bleeding is a factor, then a person may require an endoscopy or an X-ray.
Treating anemia following a diagnosis can help manage MCHC levels.
Treatments for anemia can depend on the type and severity of anemia, but
- iron supplements
- vitamin B12 supplements
- blood transfusion
- blood and bone marrow transplant
- surgery to stop any internal bleeding
Some types of anemia are preventable by following a diet that has enough:
- iron
- vitamin B12
- folate
- vitamin C
These help to produce healthy blood cells.
Red meat, poultry, and seafood are all good sources of iron. Vegetarians and vegans may need to increase their iron intake with foods such as:
- beans
- lentils
- tofu
- peas
Iron-fortified food products can also be helpful. These include cereals, soya, nut milks, and some orange juice brands.
The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) blood test measures MCHC levels. Low MCHC suggests that the red blood cells do not have sufficient hemoglobin, which can indicate anemia.
Low MCHC levels may not cause any symptoms. If symptoms do develop, they can include symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, and dizziness.
The MCHC test can help a doctor determine the cause and severity of anemia. Treatment can vary based on factors such as the individual’s general health and any underlying health conditions.