A member asked:

Is there a reliable way to see lung blebs without surgery? and if you can see them, can you reliably predict the likelihood that they'll rupture?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Douglas Arenberg answered

Specializes in Pulmonary Critical Care

Yes and no: Blebs are best seen on ct scans of your chest, but nothing (short of a prior history of "rupture") can reliably predict future rupture.

Answered 9/18/2013

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Dr. Loki Skylizard answered

Specializes in Thoracic Surgery

Sometimes: If large enough, ct scan can identify blebs and bullae. There is no way to predict spontaneous pneumothorax, "rupture". If someone has blebs and is planning higher risk activities such as mountain climbing, skydiving, scuba diving, etc... Best to discuss with family physician and consider thoracic surgeon consultation.

Answered 10/4/2016

5.3k views

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