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Low hemoglobin is caused by iron deficiency, Vitamin B12/folate deficiency, chronic blood loss, or kidney disease. Diagnosed via Complete Blood Count (CBC), Serum Ferritin, and Peripheral Smear.
Hemoglobin is the iron-rich oxygen-carrying protein inside red blood cells. Normal reference ranges vary by sex and pregnancy status (Men: 13.5-17.5 g/dL, Women: 12.0-15.5 g/dL, Pregnant Women: >11.0 g/dL).
Seek urgent care if low hemoglobin is accompanied by extreme dizziness, fainting spells, rapid heart rate, or chest pain.
Mentzer Index is calculated as MCV divided by total RBC count. A ratio below 13 indicates high probability of Thalassemia Trait, whereas a ratio above 13 indicates Iron Deficiency Anemia.
In microcytic anemias (MCV < 80 fL), differentiating Thalassemia trait from nutritional iron deficiency is crucial to avoid inappropriate iron therapy.
Mentzer Index = MCV (fL) / RBC Count (million/µL)
Thalassemia trait features high RBC count relative to MCV, yielding a low ratio (<13). Confirmation requires Hemoglobin Electrophoresis / HPLC.
Consult a hematologist or physician for HPLC testing if your Mentzer Index is under 13.
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