What Is an MCH Blood Test and Why Doctors Recommend It

Written by PeerlessOne on 24-08-2026
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pranati Kakati (Consultant Pathologist)
Last Update on 24-08-2026

Table of Content

1. Introduction
2. About MCH
3. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
4. Symptoms
5. Facts to note
6. Conclusion
7. FAQs

Introduction

In India, the lack of adequate haemoglobin in blood, especially among women and children are so severe that public health experts deem it to be a crisis. A national survey published in May 2025 flags the issue by indicating that over 52 per cent of pregnant women and 67 per cent of children suffer from inadequate haemoglobin in blood. And it remains a leading driver of maternal mortality, poor fetal development and poor cognitive impairment in youth, as pointed out by a government press note. However, many causes might trigger a fall in the haemoglobin level in blood .

About MCH

MCH (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin) test measures the average amount of haemoglobin contained in each red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the iron containing protein in blood which carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and returns carbon dioxide to the lungs. Considered alongside other test results MCH can help the healthcare provider diagnose anaemia and determine what is likely causing it. MCH is a standard part of CBC (Complete Blood Count) which checks the health of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. CBC is a basic test usually recommended by the clinicians for a variety of reasons, such as identifying anaemia, infections, inflammations, clotting disorders, monitoring treatments etc.

MCH is a calculated parameter derived from Hemoglobin and red blood cell count. It’s normal range is 27 to 33 picograms for adults and in newborn children, it tends to be higher.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

Low MCH :

It signifies lesser Hemoglobin per red blood cells (hypochromia).

Common causes are :

1. Iron deficiency especially during pregnancy and childhood because of dietary insufficiency
2. Inflammation associated with conditions like chronic kidney disease, malignancy, long term infection , autoimmune disease etc.
3. Hemoglobinopathies .

High MCH :

It indicates more Hemoglobin per red blood cell, usually cells are larger (macrocytic).

Common causes are :

1. Vitamin B12 and Folate deficiency
2. Liver disease
3. Hypothyroidism.

Symptoms

The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the underlying cause. Some common symptoms associated with low MCH levels include:

1. Fatigue
2. Pale skin.
3. Shortness of breath
4. Dizziness
5. Cold hands and feet
6. Headache

Symptoms of high MCH levels, also known as hyperchromia, can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. However, some common symptoms associated with high MCH levels include:

1. Neurological Symptoms: Neurological symptoms, such as tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, can be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, a common cause of megaloblastic anaemia where MCH level can cross the upper normal limit.
2. Mood Changes: Mood changes, such as irritability, depression, and difficulty concentrating, can be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, contributing to high MCH levels.

How the MCH level is determined:

1. Blood Sample Collection: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm , random sample can be collected, no pretest preparation required.
2. The sample is run in the automated cell counter.
3. MCH Calculation: The MCH level is calculated by dividing the total amount of haemoglobin by the number of red blood cells and result is expressed in picogram.

The outlook for people with abnormal MCH values :

Low MCH values are often caused by iron deficiency anemia. This condition can typically be treated with lifestyle changes, including consuming iron-rich foods and taking iron supplements.

In case that low MCH value is caused by thalassemia, blood transfusions may be required if symptoms are severe. In an autoimmune disorder, steroids or other immunosuppressants may be prescribed.

High MCH values caused by a deficiency of the vitamins B-12 or folate can also often be treated with lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications, supplements, or injectable vit B-12 .

Other causes of high MCH, such as hyperthyroidism or liver diseases, require addressing the underlying condition.

Facts to note

Do we need regular vitamin supplements?

An otherwise healthy person usually does not need supplements.

Diet & Lifestyle

An otherwise healthy person needs no worries. As in all other cases, a healthy lifestyle always helps, but specific steps are needed when abnormalities are detected. Since some of the problems surface later, annual health check-ups are recommended.

Peerless Group has created a rich legacy based on trust, quality, and excellence through its various organisations, creating value through innovations and focusing on people. While looking at the other industries, the legacy we have created is seen in our healthcare organisations through the provision of healthcare through modern infrastructure and quality maintenance.

Conclusion

Routine CBC test helps to detect changes in the level of haemoglobin and other parameters of blood well before they become a major issue for the health of an individual. Early diagnosis of any kind of changes in blood parameters will allow one to undergo necessary examination and get adequate advice and treatment that will be beneficial for his/her health. For some people, having a yearly CBC test during routine health check-up becomes an easy way to prevent diseases.

At Peerless Multispecialty Hospitals, advanced pathology laboratories, state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques, and skilled medical practitioners all contribute to the process of obtaining accurate results for blood tests and efficient care of our patients. We are dedicated to assisting our patients in making wise choices about their health care by providing efficient and reliable diagnostics.

FAQs