A MCH blood test measures the average amount of hemoglobin present in each red blood cell. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's cells. A low MCH level can indicate microcytic anemia, often caused by iron deficiency anemia, or conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, blood loss, and others. A high MCH level may indicate macrocytic anemia, where the red blood cells are larger than normal, possibly due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
This test is a part of a complete blood count (CBC) and can help doctors assess your body's oxygen delivery system and diagnose various health conditions.