Target cells, or codocytes, are red blood cells characterized by a bullseye appearance due to an excess of cell membrane relative to cell volume. They are often associated with conditions like liver disease, thalassemia, and hemoglobinopathies, indicating an underlying hematological disorder.

Target Cells

Target cells

Codocytes, also known as target cells, are erythrocytes with a bullseye appearance due to an excess of cell membrane relative to the volume. They are commonly associated with conditions like liver disease, thalassemia, and post-splenectomy states, and can be identified through a blood smear examination.

codocytes

Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, are the most common type of blood cell and are primarily responsible for delivering oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. Their biconcave shape and lack of a nucleus allow for maximum surface area and flexibility, optimizing their role in gas exchange and transport within the circulatory system.

red blood cells

bullseye appearance

The cell membrane is a selectively permeable barrier that surrounds the cell, maintaining homeostasis by controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates that facilitate communication and transport functions.

cell membrane

cell volume

Liver disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the liver, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, often caused by factors like viral infections, alcohol abuse, and obesity. Early detection and lifestyle changes are crucial for management and prevention, as liver damage can be irreversible and lead to life-threatening complications.

liver disease

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the body’s inability to produce enough hemoglobin, leading to anemia and requiring regular medical treatment. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern and primarily affects populations in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Asia.

thalassemia

Hemoglobinopathies are a group of genetic disorders characterized by abnormal structure or production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. These disorders can lead to various clinical manifestations, including anemia, pain, and organ damage, with sickle cell disease and thalassemia being the most prevalent types.

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