What Is a Lung Bullae?

A bulla is defined as an air space in the lung measuring more than one centimeter in diameter in the distended state. The term giant bulla is used for bullae that occupy at least 30 percent of a hemithorax [1-4].

What causes bullae in the lungs?

Smoking cigarettes is by far the most common cause of emphysema. And emphysema is by far the most common cause of giant bullae in the lungs. There are limited cases of bullae appearing in the lungs as a result of bronchial illnesses from high air pollution levels, or occupational exposure to chemical fumes.

Can lung bullae be reversed?

New-onset bullae during mechanical ventilation are potentially reversible if positive-pressure ventilation is discontinued. Drastically decreasing the airway pressure is the key management strategy.