Echinococcosis It is an infection caused by a small tapeworm called Echinococcus. Tapeworms can infect the liver, lungs, kidneys, bones or brain. They become cysts that can enlarge and damage these organs. Echinococcosis It is commonly found in many parts of the world. Especially the Middle East in the area of livestock. It also occurs in similar areas in Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the Americas, as well as in the southwestern United States. in the united states mostly found in immigrants