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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

Normal range 32–36 g/dL (320–360 g/L SI). Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA).

Also known as: hemoglobin concentration.

32–36 g/dLReference range

Reference range

Conventionalg/dL
3236
SIg/L
320360
SpecimenWhole blood (EDTA)
Conventional range32–36 g/dL
SI range320–360 g/L
Conversion factor×10 (conventional → SI)
PanelComplete Blood Count (CBC)

Convert any Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)?

The standard teaching reference range for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) is 32–36 g/dL in conventional units, or 320–360 g/L in SI units. This value is measured in whole blood (edta).

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

  • Hereditary spherocytosis
  • Marked hemolysis (sometimes artifact)

Below the range

Common causes of a low Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

  • Iron deficiency
  • Thalassemia (hypochromia)

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • A high MCHC is uncommon and often signals spherocytosis or a spurious result.

Study aid

Your notes on Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

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