These indices measure the size and content of the red blood cells. The purpose of the measurement it to obtain further insight into the body's response to anemia.
Elevated MCV (>103) is a macrocytic cell
Normal MCV is a normocytic cell
Diminished MCV (<87) is a microcytic cell
Elevated MCH is associated with macrocytic anemia
Diminished MCH is associated with microcytic anemia
Elevated MCHC is associated with spherocytosis
MCHC is normal with pernicious anemia
Diminished (<31) MCHC is associated with hypochromic anemia
Normal Values*
MCV
87-103 cubic µm/red cell
MCH
26-34 pg/cell
MCHC
31-37 g Hgb/dl
*These are general values taken from a variety of sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one type of testing protocol to another.
Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300
