Tapeworm infested liver. Light micrograph of a section through cysts in a liver containing Echinococcus sp. tapeworms. This condition, known as echinococcosis or hydatid disease, can cause abdominal pain, weight loss and yellowing of the skin (jaundice). It commonly spreads from the liver to the alveoli of the lungs, where it causes shortness of breath and coughing. Treatment is often difficult with cysts being drained through the skin, followed by medication. Often the patient is just closely monitored.