Spirochetes are spiral or corkscrew-shaped bacteria. These organisms are the cause of syphilis and Lyme disease. Silver stains are typically used to identify spirochetes, but Giemsa can also be used as a quick screen for microorganisms.
Warthin-Starry silver stain: Demonstrates spirochetes by staining them black.
Giemsa stain: Demonstrates spirochetes (as well as other microorganisms and mast cells) by staining them blue.
