This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Pathology
“Smudge cells” in the peripheral smear are characteristic of: 
Select and explain. 
A. Chronic myelogenous leukemia, B. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, C. Acute myelogenous leukemia, D. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia
B: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Answer: B: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia 
Explanation: In CLL, the peripheral blood contains increased numbers of small, round lymphocytes with scant cytoplasm. These cells are fragile and are frequently disrupted in the process of making smears, producing so-called smudge cells.