Herniation of the lung is commonly caused by congenital rib abnormalities, blunt trauma, or thoracic surgery. Spontaneous hernias are rarely described in the literature. We report a case of a spontaneous intercostal pulmonary hernia following a single cough. In addition, a review of the literature is presented which outlines the classification, causes, and incidence of lung hernias. Some reference is made to possible methods of treatment.