Mentzer Index Calculator
Distinguish between thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia using MCV and RBC values
Calculate Mentzer Index
Normal range: 80-95 fl (femtoliters)
Normal range: 4.5-5.9 million/mm³ (men), 4.1-5.1 million/mm³ (women)
Mentzer Index Results
Formula used: Mentzer Index = MCV ÷ RBC
Interpretation: <13 suggests thalassemia, >13 suggests iron deficiency
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical diagnosis. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
Index Analysis
Example Calculations
Thalassemia Example
MCV: 62 fl
RBC: 5.2 million/mm³
Index: 62 ÷ 5.2 = 11.9
Result: <13 → Thalassemia likely
Iron Deficiency Example
MCV: 68 fl
RBC: 3.8 million/mm³
Index: 68 ÷ 3.8 = 17.9
Result: >13 → Iron deficiency likely
Thalassemia vs Iron Deficiency
Thalassemia
- • Genetic disorder
- • Normal RBC count
- • Small, fragile RBCs
- • Mentzer Index <13
Iron Deficiency
- • Nutritional/blood loss
- • Reduced RBC count
- • Small RBCs
- • Mentzer Index >13
Normal Ranges
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)
Adults: 80-95 fl
Newborns: 96-108 fl
RBC Count
Men: 4.5-5.9 million/mm³
Women: 4.1-5.1 million/mm³
Hemoglobin
Men: 14-18 g/dL
Women: 12-16 g/dL
Understanding the Mentzer Index
What is the Mentzer Index?
The Mentzer Index is a simple screening tool used to differentiate between two common causes of microcytic anemia: thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. It uses readily available laboratory values from a complete blood count (CBC).
Clinical Significance
- •Helps distinguish between inherited vs acquired anemia
- •Guides further diagnostic testing
- •Cost-effective screening method
- •Widely available in clinical settings
Formula and Interpretation
Mentzer Index = MCV ÷ RBC
- MCV: Mean Corpuscular Volume (femtoliters)
- RBC: Red Blood Cell Count (million/mm³)
- < 13: Thalassemia more likely
- > 13: Iron deficiency more likely
- = 13: Inconclusive result
Important: The Mentzer Index is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnostic test. Further testing is always required for confirmation.
Understanding Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder caused by genetic mutations affecting hemoglobin production. The body produces normal numbers of red blood cells, but they are smaller and more fragile than normal.
- Alpha Thalassemia: Affects alpha globin chains
- Beta Thalassemia: Affects beta globin chains
- Thalassemia Major: Severe form requiring treatment
- Thalassemia Minor: Mild form, often asymptomatic
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells. This results in both fewer and smaller red blood cells being produced.
- Common causes: Blood loss, poor diet, pregnancy
- Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin
- Treatment: Iron supplementation, dietary changes
- Prognosis: Excellent with proper treatment