A review of the biology and toxicologic implications of the induction of lysosomal lamellar bodies by drugs.

Over 30 drugs of differing pharmacologic action are capable of inducing lamellar bodies of lysosomal origin in cells of animals and humans. The structures develop because of a drug-induced impairment in lysosomal phospholipid catabolism. Toxicity frequently accompanies the induction of these bodies. However, little information exists as to whether their development or presence is causally linked to the cellular or tissue dysfunction. This review examines the biological aspects of the induction of lysosomal lamellar bodies by drugs and considers the toxicologic implications of their presence in cells.