What is the typical cause of target cells in peripheral blood?

Target cells, also known as codocytes, are characterized by a central area of pigmentation surrounded by a peripheral ring of hemoglobin. They are commonly associated with conditions that disrupt the red blood cell membrane and lead to alterations in the surface area to volume ratio of the cells.

Liver disease, especially conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatic dysfunction, is a classic cause of target cells. In liver disease, the synthesis and metabolism of lipoproteins are altered, which can lead to an accumulation of excess cholesterol in the red blood cell membrane. This change in membrane composition can result in the formation of target cells as the cells struggle to maintain their shape and volume under the influence of these membrane abnormalities.

Target cells can also be seen in other conditions, such as hemoglobinopathies (like thalassemia) and post-splenectomy states, but in the context of this question, liver disease is the most straightforward explanation for the presence of target cells in the peripheral blood. This makes liver disease the most relevant answer. In contrast, other conditions listed may generate various hematological abnormalities but do not typically lead to the appearance of target cells in the peripheral blood.