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.
Please enter your 4-digit Secure PIN to authorize this action.