Hemoglobin Content Reference Table

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Hemoglobin Content Reference Table

Cell TypeImageCellular DescriptionAssociated Diseases and Conditions
Normochromic
  • Small and distinct central pallor
  • Normal MCH and MCHC
  • Normal
Hypochromic
  • Red blood cells (RBCs) have a larger than normal central pallor (>3 µ in diameter) due to low hemoglobin content.
  • MCHC <32 g/dL or 32%
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Thalassemias
  • Sideroblastic anemia
  • Lead poisoning
  • Some cases of chronic inflammation
Polychromatophilic
  • Little or no central pallor
  • Reddish-blue in color
  • Slightly larger than normal RBCs
  • Supravital staining identifies these cells as reticulocytes
  • Hemorrhage-related conditions
  • Hemolysis
  • Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
  • Newborns