Can elevated MCH and decreased RBC levels result in neural tube defects in a 5-week pregnant woman?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through the query and understood your concern.

MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) is the average quantity of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell. Your MCH value is slightly increased, but it is reassuring that your other indices, like MCV (mean corpuscular volume) and MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration), are normal (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Also, your hemoglobin values are within the normal range. So do not worry. It is unlikely that to have folate or vitamin B12 deficiency to the extent that it will lead to neural tube defects.

I suggest you increase the intake of green vegetables, lean meat, and eggs in your diet. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins (check for folate amounts in your tablets- it should be at least 400 micrograms). And do not stress yourself. You will be fine.

I hope I have answered your questions.

Kindly feel free to reach out for further questions.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As your prenatal vitamins have 600 mcg of folate, you do not need an extra pill. The levels of MCH 35.1 g/dL are not very high at all. If there were a folate or vitamin B12 deficiency, your MCV (mean corpuscular volume) index would have been altered (which has not occurred in your case). So do not worry. If other indices are normal, we do not expect any neural tubal defects with MCH levels at 35 g/dL. And regarding the malabsorption of vitamin B12 or folate, are you experiencing any pins and needles-like sensations in your hands or feet? Do you have mouth ulcers, smooth tongue, nausea, or vomiting?

If you have the above symptoms, I suggest you check your serum vitamin B12 levels.

I hope this has helped you.

Take care.