Microcytic Hypochromic Anaemia Test

The microcytic hypochromic anaemia test, or hypochromic cells blood test, is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that helps identify and characterise a specific type of anaemia in which red blood cells are smaller than normal (microcytic) and contain less haemoglobin than usual (hypochromic). This condition is often indicated by low values of mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in a complete blood count (CBC) test. The hypochromic microcytic anaemia blood test provides valuable insights into the underlying causes of this type of anaemia.
This profile includes CBC, Iron studies, StFR, Ferritin.

Microcytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the presence of small red blood cells (RBCs), which are called microcytes. The term "microcytic" refers to the size of the RBCs, which are smaller than normal. Hypochromic refers to the color of the RBCs, which are paler than normal.

A microcytic hypochromic anemia profile typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) test, as well as tests to measure the levels of iron, ferritin, and transferrin in the blood.

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common cause of microcytic hypochromic anemia. When iron levels are low, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin, a protein in RBCs that carries oxygen to the body's tissues. This results in less oxygen getting to the body's cells, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Other common causes include genetic disorder such as Thalassemia, chronic disease, inflammatory conditions, and chronic bleeding.

If the tests reveal a Microcytic Hypochromic Anemia, a medical professional will typically recommend further investigation to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the cause, but may include iron supplements, medications to stop bleeding and/or bone marrow examination.

Associated Tests:

A0442    Anaemia Profile-Mini

A0441    Anaemia Profile-Maxi

A0440    Anaemia Profile-Haemolytic Type

A0585    Anaemia Profile - Macrocytic

A0586    Anaemia Profile - Microcytic Hypochromic

A0443    Anaemia Profile-Nutritional

A0444    Anaemia Profile-Pernicious

A0587    Anaemia Workup Profile

Written by : Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reviewed by :  Dr. Alap Christry M.D. AVP-Lab Operations & Scientific Business Head-Clinical Chemistry