What does it mean when red blood cell count is high and mean corpuscular hemoglobin is low, and what should be done?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
In most cases, elevated red blood cell count with low mean hemoglobin levels may result from physiological factors, or could be caused by pathological conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or aplastic anemia. Patients need to undergo daily care and take prescribed medications as directed by a physician. Other possible causes include megaloblastic anemia, thalassemia, and leukemia.
In most cases, a high red blood cell count with low mean hemoglobin content may be caused by physiological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or aplastic anemia. Patients may require daily care and medication as prescribed by a doctor. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
After consuming large amounts of water or receiving high-volume intravenous fluid infusion, increased circulating blood volume and blood dilution may occur due to excess body fluids. This can lead to a temporarily elevated red blood cell count and low hemoglobin concentration. This is a normal physiological phenomenon with minimal fluctuation, and the body usually self-corrects back to normal levels without special treatment.
2. Pathological Factors
1) Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia results from poor dietary habits, insufficient iron intake, or increased iron demands, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin. Blood tests in these patients may show a high red blood cell count with low mean hemoglobin levels. Treatment typically involves taking iron supplements as directed by a physician, such as ferrous sulfate tablets or iron dextran oral solution.
2) Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is caused by factors such as prolonged exposure to X-ray radiation or changes in the body's immune system. It can cause symptoms including chest tightness, dizziness, and decreased resistance to infections. Due to impaired hematopoietic function, blood tests may reveal a high red blood cell count and low mean hemoglobin levels. Treatment may include medications such as cyclosporine soft capsules or compound cyclophosphamide tablets as prescribed. In severe cases, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be necessary.
Besides the above causes, other conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, thalassemia, or leukemia may also be responsible. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital.
