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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

Normal range 27–33 pg/cell (27–33 pg SI). Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA).

Also known as: hemoglobin per cell.

27–33 pg/cellReference range

Reference range

Conventionalpg/cell
2733
SIpg
2733
SpecimenWhole blood (EDTA)
Conventional range27–33 pg/cell
SI range27–33 pg
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
PanelComplete Blood Count (CBC)

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

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

The standard teaching reference range for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) is 27–33 pg/cell in conventional units, or 27–33 pg 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 (MCH)

  • Macrocytic anemia
  • Newborn period

Below the range

Common causes of a low Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Thalassemia

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Tracks closely with MCV; low values accompany hypochromic microcytic anemia.

Study aid

Your notes on Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

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