Lung cysts are seen in about 8% of the general population, with an increased prevalence in older people, and are not associated with emphysema.

[5] They may be part of the aging changes of the lungs, and cause a slight decrease in their diffusing capacity.

[5] The presence of multiple pulmonary cysts may indicate a need to evaluate the possibility of bullous or cystic lung diseases.

[8] Two infectious diseases that are commonly associated with cavities of lung tissue are Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

The formation of cavities is due to tissue necrosis and creates an environment that allows the pathogen to expand in numbers and spread further.