This article will discuss the MCH test, its range, procedure and results. We will also discuss some questions related to the MCH test.
An MCH test stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin test, it measures the average amount of haemoglobin in red blood cells, a protein that carries oxygen through the entire body. It is measured by dividing the amount of haemoglobin by red blood cells.
What is the Range of MCH?
The normal range is between 26 and 33 picograms. in adults and 32-34 in newborns. Low MCH indicates iron deficiency anaemia caused by blood loss, surgeries, trauma, low iron diet, and autoimmune diseases. High MCH caused by vitamin D deficiency, alcohol history for years, problematic thyroid glands, antibiotics, and antivirals. MCH levels increase in men with age.
Procedure for the MCH Test
The process of performing MCH is not everyone’s cup of tea and hence needs to be performed by only specialists. On the first hand, the specialist draws a blood sample from the veins and then the sample is centrifuged to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. The next process is through a spectrophotometer to measure the count of hemoglobin and then the number of red blood cells is counted by an automated cell counter. Finally, by dividing red blood cells and hemoglobin MCH is calculated.
Preparations for the MCH Test
There is no such preparation required to conduct MCH but it does include taking samples by the specialist who will draw the blood from the veins, and later the sample is to go through the lab for further analysis. Before the test, one should see a doctor and inform all of their medical history in case that person is taking any medicines for high blood pressure, cholesterol, or other counter-drugs. One should stop taking those medicines until the test is done because the rate of accuracy will improve. Discussing with a specialist results in the best medical advice. The specialist will help the person avoid drinking and eating before the test to get the best outcome of the test. Staying well hydrated is prohibited before the test as it will create problems in drawing blood from the veins. Doctors usually do not recommend fasting but in certain cases, it's required for up to 6-8 hours. Informing the doctor about the fear and anxiety will help in the process as by knowing it the doctor will ensure a smooth experience. Clothing should also be kept in mind as loose clothes are helpful while drawing blood from the inner elbow area.
What does the MCH test show?
The MCH test indicates the present form of the human body and whether it’s perfectly fine or is suffering the deficiency. The division of haemoglobin by red blood cells provides the current state of the human body whether it's suffering from a high level or low level, both levels depict weakness and deficiencies. Both the levels are proof of unhealthy lifestyle, anxiety, and physical habits, and the outcome after the test is alarming for the person if the result is high or low in range. Surgeries, mental trauma, low diet in food, and addiction to alcohol for years. Deficiency in vitamin D, high use of antibiotics for injuries, fever, and body-related issues are also reasons for the imbalances in levels. Further enabling the person to take the best advice from the doctor to curb the up-down of MCH levels with proper medication and other remedies advised by the doctor. Youngsters these days are avoiding proper diet and taking highly effective drugs to maintain their bodies without knowing the side effects and creating a mess of their gifted bodies with unhealthy lifestyles in their respective lives.
Why to consult a doctor for an MCH test?
Therefore consulting a doctor should be kept in mind to avoid knowing the condition of the body by giving samples and getting analyzed by the laboratory. MCH is highly advised to understand the current state of the body and then get prescribed by the doctor for better medication and better functioning of the body. A healthy body is the outcome of a better lifestyle and a deficient body is the result of an unhealthy lifestyle. So get your MCH done to know yourself better in life.
Which Tests are used for the MCH test?
The following tests are used for the MCH test:
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) (Book Now)
- Complete Haemogram (Book Now)
- Advance Full Body Health Checkup (Book Now)
- GDIC Super Advance Health Package (Book Now)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is MCH?
An MCH test stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin test, it measures the average amount of haemoglobin in red blood cells, a protein that carries oxygen through the entire body. It is measured by dividing the amount of haemoglobin by red blood cells.
What is the normal range of MCH?
The normal range of MCH ranges between 26 and 33 picograms.
What are the Causes of the abnormal MCH levels?
Various causes related to abnormal MCH levels include unhealthy lifestyle, junk food, too much sweets, food low in nutrients, infection, diseases etc.
Which tests are used for MCH Diagnosis?
Various types of tests are used to diagnose MCH levels like MCH tests, complete haemograms and other health checkup tests, which include MCH.
What is the ICD-10 code for MCH Unspecified?
The ICD-10 code for unspecified MCH is D64.9.
How to book an appointment for an MCH Test in Delhi?
Patients can visit Ganesh's diagnostic website or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 to book an appointment for any MCH test in Delhi.
How can Patients download MCH Test Reports Online?
Patients can visit Ganesh's diagnostic website or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 to download the MCH test report online.
Which MCH Tests Diagnostic Centre is near you?
You can choose Ganesh Diagnostic Centres for MCH tests in Delhi which has different centres in Delhi Rohini, Nangloi, Model Town, Hari Nagar, Mangol Puri and Yamuna Vihar.