MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin)
Average amount of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell
Also known as
Definition
MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) shows how much hemoglobin a single red blood cell contains on average. Together with MCV, MCHC and RDW it belongs to the red blood cell indices, which are measured with the blood count. Together they describe the size and hemoglobin content of red blood cells and help distinguish different types of anemia, for example with iron deficiency or a vitamin B deficiency.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit | pg (picograms per cell) |
| Reference Range | Typical for adults: 28–33 pg (normal value in the guideline of the German hematology society DGHO). Labs differ slightly; the reference range on your own report is what counts. Discuss any deviation with your doctor. |
Agree on your personal target range with your doctor.
Conversion to amount of substance (our own calculation, based on the hemoglobin subunit): 1 pg equals about 0.062 fmol. 28–33 pg is therefore about 1.74–2.05 fmol.
↓ What a low value means
A low MCH means that red blood cells contain less hemoglobin on average (hypochromic). This can often be linked to iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency is the most common but not the only cause: a low MCH can also be linked to thalassemia or anemia of chronic disease. The value is interpreted together with MCV, hemoglobin and other blood results. Discuss the result with your doctor.
↑ What a high value means
A high MCH means that red blood cells contain more hemoglobin on average (hyperchromic). This can be linked to anemia caused by a vitamin B deficiency. An MCH within the reference range does not rule out anemia: anemia of chronic disease, for example, is normochromic at first. Discuss the result with your doctor.
When to test
MCH is measured with the blood count, for example during routine checkups or with signs of anemia such as tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, an irregular heartbeat, pale skin or cold hands and feet. No special preparation is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between MCH, MCV and MCHC? +
MCV describes the average size of a red blood cell, MCH the average amount of hemoglobin in it, and MCHC the amount of hemoglobin relative to the cell's size. Together with RDW, which captures differences in cell size, they are called red blood cell indices.
Do I need to fast for an MCH test? +
No, no special preparation is needed. The blood draw from a vein in your arm usually takes less than five minutes.
Can MCH also be expressed in fmol? +
Yes, as an amount of substance in femtomoles (fmol). Based on the hemoglobin subunit, 1 pg equals about 0.062 fmol (our own calculation). The reference range above is given in picograms (pg) per cell. Always compare values over time in the same unit.
Can MCH be normal even though anemia is present? +
Yes. In normochromic anemia, MCH is within the reference range; anemia of chronic disease, for example, is normochromic at first and only becomes hypochromic over a longer course. That is why the overall picture of the blood count matters, which your doctor assesses.
MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin)
Sources
Last updated: October 05, 2026
This information is for orientation only and does not replace medical advice. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, method and country.