Target Cell - Hematology

Hematology

In hematology, target cells are very abnormal red blood cells, that have a bullseye appearance (See main article: codocyte). These target cells (from red blood cells) are associated with Hemoglobin C (HbC) disease, Asplenia, Liver Disease, Thalassemia and severe Iron deficiency anemia. Target cells may be seen on a peripheral blood smear when there is excess membrane relative to the amount of hemoglobin. Membrane may be excessive in liver disease. Intracellular hemoglobin may be lowered during iron deficiency, thalassemia, hemoglobin C or SC and other hemoglobinopathies.