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Examples of infections associated with biofilm formation_
| Type of Infection | Description | Example Pathogens |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), | UTIs often associated with the presence of catheters, where biofilm formation hinders the eradication of pathogens. | Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
| Respiratory Tract Infections | Chronic lung infections, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis, where biofilm protects bacteria from antibiotics and the immune response. | Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus |
| Chronic Wound Infections | Chronic wounds, where biofilm inhibits regenerative processes and promotes persistent inflammation. | Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
| Infections Associated with Medical Implants | Infections associated with implanted medical devices, where biofilm on the surface of the implant leads to chronic inflammation. | Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Propionibacterium acnes |
| Endocarditis | Infection of the inner layer of the heart, often associated with biofilm on heart valves, leading to severe complications. | Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, Enterococcus faecalis |
Comparison of Selected Methods for Combating Bacterial Biofilm_
| Method | Mechanism of Action | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBWC – Wound therapy | High doses of drugs, antiseptics, anti-biofilm agents | Effective in treating chronic wounds | Requires intensive treatment monitoring |
| Phage Enzymes (Lysozymes, Depolymerases) | Cell wall degradation and EPS biofilm breakdown | Targeted action on biofilm | Limited effectiveness in monotherapy |
| Combined Phage Therapy | Bacterial lysis, supporting antibiotics and disinfection | Enhances the effectiveness of classical therapy | Risk of bacterial resistance to phages |
| Lactoferrin | Iron binding, limiting bacterial growth | Natural, safe compound | Effectiveness dependent on environmental conditions |
| Quorum Sensing Inhibitors (QS) | Blocking bacterial communication and biofilm regulation | Targeted action on virulence mechanisms | Primarily in the research phase, limited clinical availability |