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Lyme disease and syphilis are caused by spiral or corkscrew shaped bacteria known as:

  1. Bacilli

  2. Cocci

  3. Spirochetes

  4. Vibrios

The correct answer is: Bacilli

The correct identification of Lyme disease and syphilis stems from the specific type of bacteria responsible for these infections. The bacteria that cause Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) and syphilis (Treponema pallidum) are classified as spirochetes, which are characterized by their unique spiral or corkscrew shape. This structural feature allows spirochetes to move in a corkscrew motion, which is crucial for their ability to infiltrate host tissues effectively. In contrast, bacilli refer to rod-shaped bacteria, cocci are spherical, and vibrios have a comma-like shape. Each of these types represents a different morphology of bacteria, and they are not responsible for the diseases mentioned. Consequently, the correct term for the bacteria causing Lyme disease and syphilis is spirochetes.