MCH levels in blood? What do they really mean?

Mean corpuscularhemoglobin (MCH) refers to the average quantity of hemoglobin (a protein) present in a single red blood cell. These values are useful in understanding the cause of anemia. They also help in classifying the types of anemia.

Variations in MCH levels are indications of:

1. Iron deficiency anemia- Iron is important for production of hemoglobin. Hence lack of iron leads to reduced hemoglobin levels which further reduces MCH.

2. Thalassemia- This condition cause the body to make less RBCs and hemoglobin, thus resulting in low levels of MCH.

3. Folate and B 12 deficiency- Anemia due to folate or B12 deficiency, result in large oval red blood cells with a normal hemoglobin content. In both these cases increased MCH levels in blood are observed.

4. Celiac Disease (Improper absorption of iron)- Certain conditions damage the small intestine resulting in malabsorption of iron and other nutrients. Thereby leading to decreased hemoglobin and MCH levels.

Symptoms of low MCH are as follows:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Increased heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Headache

Managing the MCH levels:

• Iron supplements
• Intravenous iron therapy
• Vitamin supplements

Given below are few rich sources of Iron:

• Pulses and beans
• Dates
• Brown rice
• Tofu
• Beetroot
• Lean red meat, turkey and chicken
• Fish- Such as mackerel, sardines, salmon and pilchards
• Nuts
• Leafy green vegetables- such as spinach, watercress and broccoli
• Dry fruit- in particular apricots, raisins and prunes.

MCH is an important parameter in blood and any variations in them could indicate a range of conditions. Understanding the cause of variation is necessary to decide on a treatment method.