Spirochaeta

Spirochaeta is a genus of spirochaetes, a group of Gram-negative bacteria that includes important pathogens such as the agents of syphilis and Lyme disease. The name "Spirochaeta" is derived from the Greek words for "coil" and "hair", reflecting the distinctive helical shape of these bacteria.

Characteristics

Spirochaeta are characterized by their long, slender, helically coiled cells. They are chemoheterotrophic, obtaining their energy from organic compounds in their environment. Spirochaeta are also anaerobic, meaning they can survive in environments without oxygen.

Pathogenicity

Some species of Spirochaeta are pathogenic to humans. For example, Spirochaeta pallida is the causative agent of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Spirochaeta burgdorferi is the agent of Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness that can cause a range of symptoms from fatigue and muscle pain to neurological problems.

Treatment

Treatment for infections caused by Spirochaeta typically involves antibiotics. For syphilis, the antibiotic of choice is usually penicillin, while for Lyme disease, a combination of doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime is often used.

See also

• Spirochaetes
• Syphilis
• Lyme disease

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