Human Anatomy

Pathological Findings in the Dissection Lab

Lung Bleb

Large blebs (air pockets) are characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, emphysema). However, they are also seen in lungs that are otherwise normal in appearance. In this case only a small part of an otherwise healthy lung displays a bleb, or air pocket, in the lung tissue. It was likely caused by some previous disease process that produced localized disruption of the lung tissue.