What is the causative agent in syphilis?

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which is a spirochete known for its helical shape. This organism is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and can lead to various stages of infection, each with distinct symptoms. Recognizing Treponema pallidum as the causative agent is crucial for understanding the disease's progression and treatment options.

The other options refer to different sexually transmitted infections. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea, while Chlamydia trachomatis is associated with chlamydia, both of which are separate infections with their own characteristics. Mycoplasma genitalium is also known to cause a urinary or reproductive tract infection but is not related to syphilis. Understanding these distinctions is important for accurate diagnosis and management of sexually transmitted infections.