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Blood health

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration

Also known as: MCHC blood test, Mean cell hemoglobin concentration, Red cell hemoglobin concentration The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) test measures the average concentration of hemoglobin inside your red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, and MCHC indicates how densely packed each red blood cell is with hemoglobin. It’s one of several red blood cell measurements calculated as part of a complete blood count (CBC).

Low MCHC values suggest red blood cells contain less hemoglobin than normal, while high values can indicate structural or membrane abnormalities. Though MCHC is not used to diagnose conditions on its own, it provides important context for identifying and classifying types of anemia.

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Key takeaways

  • Sample required: Blood (typically taken from a vein in the arm)

  • Tests for: The average concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells (RBCs), which is used to determine anemia type and evaluate red blood cell health.

  • Typical healthy range: 32 to 36 grams per deciliter (g/dL) (ranges vary slightly by lab).

What can an MCHC test tell you?

MCHC helps providers understand how well your red blood cells carry oxygen. It’s primarily used to:

  • Determine the cause of anemia. Low MCHC (hypochromia) is often seen in iron-deficiency anemia or thalassemia, while high MCHC (hyperchromia) may occur with anemia caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, or with certain autoimmune or hereditary conditions.

  • Monitor your treatment response. If you’re being treated for anemia, MCHC can help track how your red blood cells respond over time.

What is being tested?

MCHC is calculated from other CBC results using this formula:

MCHC = (Hemoglobin ÷ Hematocrit) × 100

Hemoglobin (Hb) is the oxygen-carrying protein within red blood cells, while hematocrit (Hct) is the percentage of red blood cells in your blood. Together, these values show how much hemoglobin each red blood cell contains relative to its size.

A normal MCHC means your red blood cells are properly filled with hemoglobin. Abnormal results can help determine whether anemia is due to iron deficiency, chronic disease, or other underlying issues.

Where is the MCHC test typically included?

MCHC isn’t a standalone test. It’s automatically calculated and reported as part of a complete blood count (CBC), which assesses red and white blood cells and platelets to evaluate for anemia, infection, and overall blood health.

CBC with MCHC testing is included as part of lab testing through Hers. Discover how to improve or optimize your health with recommendations based on your results.

Who should get an MCHC test?

You’ll typically have an MCHC test as part of routine screening or if your provider suspects anemia or a blood disorder. It may be especially important if you have:

  • Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or dizziness

  • Unexplained weakness or a rapid heartbeat

  • Chronic blood loss or heavy menstrual bleeding

  • Conditions linked to anemia, such as iron deficiency, thalassemia, or a vitamin B12 or folate deficiency

  • A family history of blood disorders

  • Chronic disease or inflammatory conditions

How Labs by Hers works

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    Get your results

    Review your lab results to understand which areas of your health may need attention.

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    Spot early signals

    Identify potential health risks or system imbalances before they become more serious.

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Not available in all 50 states. Eligibility and provider order required. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. A provider will reach out about critical results and plans include access to 24/7 provider messaging.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

Frequently asked questions

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What causes changes in MCHC levels?

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) levels typically change in response to conditions that affect red blood cell formation or structure. Low MCHC is most often linked to iron-deficiency anemia, thalassemia, anemia of chronic disease, lead toxicity, or blood loss due to poor iron absorption or chronic bleeding.

High MCHC may occur with vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia, inherited blood disorders like spherocytosis, certain autoimmune conditions, liver disease, or hypothyroidism. It can also rise temporarily with severe dehydration or from some medications, including corticosteroids.

Is fasting required for the MCHC test?

No. The test can be performed at any time of day without fasting.

How long do results take?

Results are typically available within 24 hours.

Can MCHC be measured at home?

Yes—some at-home CBC kits provide MCHC results, but they must be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

What is considered a low or high result?

Below 32 g/dL is low, while above 36 g/dL is considered high, although numbers may vary by lab.

How often should I test MCHC?

It’s included in routine checkups. If you have anemia or a chronic illness, your provider may monitor it every few months.

Does insurance cover it?

Yes, it’s generally covered when ordered as part of a CBC or for evaluation of anemia symptoms. Insurance is not required for lab testing available through the Hers platform.

What tests are related to this biomarker?

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)

• Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)

• Hemoglobin and hematocrit

• Iron studies (ferritin, iron, TIBC)

• Peripheral blood smear

The information provided here is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health concerns.

Related biomarkers

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Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a test that measures the percentage of your blood that is made up of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Being in the healthy range means your blood cells are successfully transporting oxygen to your tissues to sustain bodily functions.

Learn more about Hematocrit

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is the protein inside your red blood cells that carries oxygen to your muscles and brain. Being in the healthy range means your blood cells have what they need to move oxygen to your tissues successfully.

Learn more about Hemoglobin

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) measures the average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell, which shows how well your blood can carry oxygen. A healthy level means your blood has enough hemoglobin for proper oxygen transport.

Learn more about Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measures the average volume of your red blood cells, which can help reveal early signs of nutrient deficiencies or other blood conditions.

Learn more about Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Mean platelet volume (MPV) measures the average volume of your blood platelets, which play an essential role in blood clotting. When your MPV is in the healthy range, it suggests that your platelet volume is normal.

Learn more about Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Platelet Count

Platelets are the blood cells that help your body form clots, stopping bleeding when needed. A healthy platelet count means your body generally supports normal blood clotting when necessary.

Learn more about Platelet Count

Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body. Your healthy red blood cell count is helping your organs and tissues function at their best.

Learn more about Red Blood Cell Count

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

Red cell distribution width (RDW) measures the variation in the size of your red blood cells, which can help detect early signs of anemia or other blood conditions. A healthy RDW suggests that your red blood cells are uniform and efficiently transporting oxygen throughout your body.

Learn more about Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

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Reviewed by Darragh O'Carroll, MD

Published 12/04/2025