Which hematological condition is best characterized by the presence of "smudge cells" in peripheral blood?

The presence of "smudge cells," also known as "basket cells," is most closely associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). These cells are lymphocytes that have lost their structural integrity during the process of blood smear preparation, resulting in the characteristic smudging appearance. The formation of smudge cells occurs due to the fragile nature of the lymphocytes in CLL, which is a hallmark of the disease.

In CLL, the accumulation of these abnormal lymphocytes in the blood leads to the specific morphologic finding of smudge cells on a blood smear. This can help in the diagnosis and is often used as a key indicator during microscopic examination. Observing this feature can guide further investigations and confirm the diagnosis of CLL, making it a crucial aspect for hematology professionals to recognize.

Other hematological conditions listed may exhibit different cell types or features under the microscope, but the unique presence of smudge cells is particularly emblematic of CLL.