Erythrocyte indices in a large cohort of β-thalassemia carrier: Implication for population screening in an area with high prevalence and heterogeneity of thalassemia.

Using MCV alone for the screening of β-thalassemia may pose a significant number of false negative although three-quarter of them are carriers of mild β+ -thalassemia. MCH with approximately five times more sensitive is a better screening marker. Using a combined MCV and MCH is highly recommended, especially in an area with high prevalence and heterogeneity of thalassemia like Thailand.