What does "spirochete" refer to in veterinary medicine?

The term "spirochete" refers specifically to a group of bacteria characterized by their spiral-shaped, elongated forms and unique anatomical features. These bacteria are known for their motility, which is often facilitated by the presence of axial filaments, allowing them to move in a corkscrew motion. Spirochetes include significant pathogens in veterinary medicine, such as the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease and leptospirosis, highlighting their importance in animal health. Understanding that spirochetes are categorized within the bacterial domain is essential for veterinary technicians as it informs diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for the diseases they cause. This classification distinguishes them from viruses, fungi, and parasites, each of which has different biological characteristics and therapeutic approaches.