RBCs that are hypochromic have decreased amounts of hemoglobin. An MCHC <32 g/dL reflects this condition, which is illustrated in the upper image on the right.
Hyperchromia means an increase in color. The only cells that are truly hyperchromic are spherocytes. Spherocytes are cells that contain more hemoglobin than normal in relation to cell volume—the arrows in the lower image on the right point to spherocytes.
Cells in the "too thin" portion of the smear may appear hyperchromic; however, this is an artifact. Macrocytes, which appear to have increased amounts of hemoglobin, have an MCHC value within normal limits, indicating that the cells, although larger than normal, are normochromic.
