Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which type of bacteria is responsible for causing syphilis?

1. Streptococcus

2. Spirilla

3. Salmonella

4. E. coli

The correct answer is: Spirilla

The presence of Spirilla as the type of bacteria responsible for causing syphilis is accurate. Spirilla are spiral-shaped bacteria, and the specific type that causes syphilis is called Treponema pallidum. This bacterium is characterized by its unique corkscrew shape and is known for its ability to move through bodily fluids, which contributes to its transmission during sexual contact. Understanding the nature of Spirilla helps underscore why this group of bacteria is associated with specific diseases, including syphilis. In contrast, the other bacteria mentioned, such as Streptococcus, Salmonella, and E. coli, are associated with different infections and do not have the morphological characteristics or pathogenic profile that link them to syphilis. Streptococcus, for example, is known for throat infections and skin diseases, while Salmonella is typically connected with foodborne illnesses. Meanwhile, E. coli is primarily associated with gastrointestinal infections. Thus, recognizing the traits that define bacteria types is essential for identifying their respective roles in disease causation.