How reports print it
MCHСреднее содержание гемоглобина в эритроцитеСреднее содержание гемоглобинаMean corpuscular hemoglobinMean cell hemoglobin
What it shows
The average amount of haemoglobin in one red cell. It usually moves together with MCV.
Units and conversion
Base unit: pg.
Printed in one unit.
Typical ranges
Your laboratory’s range comes first — it is printed on the report next to the result. Below is one laboratory’s adult range with its method: a reference, not a rule.
| Who | Range, pg |
|---|---|
| Adults, 18–65 years | 27–34 |
| Men, 66 years and older | 27–34 |
| Women, 66 years and older | 27–35 |
Range source: Лаборатория Хеликс — Общий анализ крови (без лейкоцитарной формулы и СОЭ)
Why it can be higher
Common reasons discussed with a doctor. This is not a diagnosis.
- Low vitamin B12 or folate
- The same reasons as a high MCV
Why it can be lower
- Low iron
- Inherited differences in haemoglobin production
What to ask a doctor
- How does MCH fit with MCV and haemoglobin?
- Are iron store tests needed?
Whom to see
A GP or internist.