RBC Indices
Alternate Names : Blood Indices, Erythrocyte Indices, MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin), MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration), MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume), Red Cell Mass Measurement
Definition
Red blood cell (RBC) indices are part of the complete blood count (CBC) test. The indices include:
Red blood cells transport hemoglobin which, in turn, transports oxygen. The amount of oxygen received by tissue depends on the amount and function of RBCs and hemoglobin. The MCV, MCH, and MCHC reflect the size and hemoglobin content of individual red blood cells.
See also RBC count.
Why is the Test Performed?
MCV values reflect the size, and MCH and MCHC reflect the hemoglobin concentration of individual cells. These RBC indices are useful in the diagnosis of types of anemia.
Anemias are classified on the basis of cell size (MCV) and amount of Hgb (MCH).
- MCV less than lower limit of normal: microcytic
- MCV within normal range: normocytic
- MCV greater than upper limit of normal: macrocytic
- MCH less than lower limit of normal: hypochromic
- MCH within normal range: normochromic
- MCH greater than upper limit of normal: hyperchromic
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