MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration)

Haemoglobin concentration within red cells — flags haemolysis when high.

What it is

MCHC is the average haemoglobin concentration per volume of red blood cells. It is the last CBC index to fall in iron deficiency. A high MCHC can indicate haemolysis or hereditary spherocytosis.

Why it matters

In cancer patients, unexpectedly high MCHC can be a red flag for haemolytic processes. It is also used as a quality control indicator for the blood sample itself — extremely high values sometimes indicate a laboratory artefact.

How to test

Full blood count (calculated value).

This information is for educational purposes only. Always discuss testing and interpretation of results with your care team.

Optimal range

32–36 g/dL.

How often

Each blood count panel.