The cyst stage causes hydatid disease, which can be quite serious. In humans, the liver and the lungs are common sites for the cyst to form. As the cyst enlarges, surrounding tissues can be damaged from the pressure. If the cyst ruptures, the contents will spread to adjacent tissue, allowing new cysts to form. Surgery is required to remove the cysts.
Symptoms vary depending on location of cysts.
Tapeworm infestations are common in humans. Adult tapeworms, such as the figure below, live in the small intestine of humans. True size, approx. The adult is 2 to 4 mm long, barely visible in fecal material. Adults can be observed microscopically in the stools of patients, but only during the first few weeks of infestation.