ID#: 2144 Description: This illustration depicts a photomicrographic view of a Levaditi-stained culture specimen revealing the presence of numerous Treponema pallidum bacteria. Syphilis is passed from person to person through direct contact with a syphilis sore, known as a chancre, containing T. pallidum bacteria, and occurring mainly on the external genitals, vagina, anus, or in the rectum. Content Providers(s): CDC Creation Date: 1979