Shine & Lal Index
Shine & Lal index (1977) = (MCV^2 x MCH) / 100; < 1530 suggests beta-thalassemia trait, > 1530 iron deficiency.
Open the calculator → Runs in your browser. Data leaves only if you deliberately send a problem report from the interactive tool.
Example
- MCV
- 70 fL
- MCH
- 22 pg
Result: Shine & Lal index 1078 — thalassemia trait suggested (< 1530).
The tool opens with these values already filled in. Replace them with your own.
What the result means
- < 1530
- Beta-thalassemia trait suggested.
- > 1530
- Iron-deficiency suggested ((MCV^2 x MCH) / 100; cutoff varies by population). A discrimination index, not a diagnosis.
What you enter
- MCV
- MCH
How this is calculated
Shine I, Lal S. A strategy to detect beta-thalassaemia minor. Lancet. 1977;1(8013):692-694. Read the source ↗
A reference and educational tool. Not medical, legal, or financial advice, and not a substitute for clinician judgment.