Red blood cell (RBC) indices are part of the complete blood count (CBC) test. They are used to help diagnose the cause of anemia, a condition in which there are too few red blood cells.
Erythrocyte indices; Blood indices; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH); Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC); Mean corpuscular volume (MCV); Red blood cell indices
How the test is performed
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture
The values for MCHC, and MCH are calculated from the hemoglobin (Hgb), hematocrit (Hct), and RBC count:
MCHC = Hgb/Hct
MCH = Hgb/RBC count
The MCV is measured directly by a machine.
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is necessary.
How the test will feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed
RBCs transport hemoglobin which, in turn, transports oxygen. The amount of oxygen tissues receive depends on the amount and function of RBCs and hemoglobin.
The MCV reflects the size of red blood cells. The MCH and MCHC reflect the hemoglobin content of red blood cells. These RBC measures are used to diagnose types of anemia.
Anemias are defined based on cell size (MCV) and amount of Hgb (MCH).
MCV less than lower limit of normal: microcytic anemia
MCV within normal range: normocytic anemia
MCV greater than upper limit of normal: macrocytic anemia
MCH less than lower limit of normal: hypochromic anemia
MCH within normal range: normochromic anemia
MCH greater than upper limit of normal: hyperchromic anemia
Normal Values
MCV: 80 - 100 femtoliter
MCH: 27 - 31 picograms/cell
MCHC: 32 - 36 grams/deciliter
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different samples.
What abnormal results mean
This test is used to diagnose the cause of anemia. The following are the types of anemia and their causes:
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
Excessive bleeding
Fainting or feeling light-headed
Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Review Date:
2/8/2012
Reviewed By:
Todd Gersten, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Palm Beach Cancer Institute, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington; David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
