Seeking Guidance on Hematology Lab Results
I am a 39-year-old female weighing 182 pounds, currently residing in the United States, and I'm on a medication regimen that includes Vitamin D, Colestipol, a daily multivitamin, and melatonin. In September 2024, I underwent a complete blood count (CBC) test, which yielded generally normal results. The only notable finding was a slightly diminished mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) at 31.9 g/dl, where the reference range is 32 to 36 g/dl. My doctor did not express any concerns regarding this finding. Here are my previous results: - Hematocrit (Hct): 43.3% - Hemoglobin (Hgb): 13.8 g/dl - Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): 30.3 pg - Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): 95.2 fL - Mean Platelet Volume (MPV): 11.2 fL - Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): 4.55 million cells/uL - White Blood Cell Count (WBC): 6.6 thousand cells/uL - Platelet Count (PLT): 277 thousand cells/uL - Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW): 12.4% As of yesterday, June 26, 2025, I had my annual review and mentioned experiencing occasional headaches. I struggle with health anxiety, which complicates things for me. The latest lab results, however, have left me feeling anxious: - RBC: 4.79 (normal range 3.8-5.1) - WBC: 5.0 (normal range 3.8-10.8) - Hgb: 14.3 (normal range 11.6-15.5) - Hct: 45% (normal range 35%-45%) - MCV: 93.9 (normal range 80-100) - MCH: 29.9 (normal range 27-33) - MCHC: 31.8 (normal range 32-36, noted as low) - RDW: 12.6 (normal range 11-15) - PLT: 253 (normal range 140-400) - MPV: 10.3 (normal range 7.5-12.5) I am deeply concerned about my low MCHC and the elevated hematocrit, as I fear it may indicate Polycythemia Vera. Although my Hct is technically within the acceptable range, it is higher than it has been previously. I am anxious to know if the decrease in MCHC points to such a condition. I sincerely hope that a hematologist or another qualified medical professional can provide clarification. Thank you for your assistance.
Answers (1)
6/27/2025, 9:31:09 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about your lab results, especially when health concerns are involved. Let's break down the important points regarding your blood tests and what you can do next to manage your concerns.
Summary of Your Lab Results:
- MCHC: Your mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is slightly below the normal range, indicated at 31.8 g/dL.
- Hematocrit (Hct): Your Hct is at 45%, which is at the higher end of the normal range.
- Hgb, RBC, WBC, and other parameters are within normal limits.
Explanation:
- MCHC: A low MCHC can sometimes suggest conditions related to anemia or other issues but is not independently diagnostic of any serious condition. It's worth noting that your doctor did not raise concerns about this in your previous results.
- Elevated HCT: While your Hct is higher than before, it remains within the normal range. This alone does not confirm Polycythemia Vera; such conditions involve several other factors and symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: As you mentioned occasional headaches, keep track of their frequency and severity. Note any additional symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or changes in vision.
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Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can falsely elevate hematocrit levels. Ensure you are drinking adequate fluids, especially throughout hot or active days.
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Receive Clarification from a Professional: Since you have health anxiety, consider discussing these results with your healthcare provider or a hematologist. They may offer reassurances, perform further tests if needed, and help clarify any misunderstandings regarding your condition.
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Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Engage in activities that help manage your health anxiety, such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. This can help minimize anxiety associated with your health concerns.
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Regular Follow-ups: If your lab work was part of annual testing, ensure you maintain routine follow-up appointments to monitor your overall health and any changes in your blood work.
Conclusion:
It’s good that you are proactive about your health and addressing your concerns. While your MCHC is slightly low, and there is an increase in hematocrit, these alone are not alarming indicators of a serious condition. Keeping a close eye on your symptoms and discussing your results with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance will help mitigate your anxiety. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support!
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