ID#: 10179
Caption:
Using a dark field microscopy technique, this photomicrograph revealed the presence of Treponema pallidum spirochetes, which are the bacterial agents responsible for causing syphilis. “A diagnosis of syphilis is confirmed by using dark field microscopy to demonstrate T. pallidum in material from suspected lesions, or regional lymph nodes (Creighton, 1990). A positive dark field result is an almost certain diagnosis of primary, secondary, or early congenital syphilis. In primary syphilis, the dark field examination may provide a means by which to identify the etiologic agent of syphilis and diagnose the disease before antibodies to T. pallidum can be detected.”
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Content Provider(s): CDC/ W.F. Schwartz
Creation Date: 1961
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