Authors: Mark Smeltzer, Manjari Joshi, Mark Shirtliff, Daniel G. Meeker, Jeffrey B. Stambough, Janette M. Harro
RESPONSE: A biofilm may be defined as a microbe-derived sessile community characterized by organisms that are attached to a substratum, interface or each other are embedded in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substance and exhibit an altered phenotype with respect to growth, gene expression and protein production. The biofilm infection life cycle generally follows the steps of attachment (interaction between bacteria and the implant), accumulation (interactions between bacterial cells), maturation (formation of a viable 3D structure) and dispersion/detachment (release from the biofilm). The life cycle of biofilm is variable depending on the organism involved. There are characteristics in the life cycle of biofilm formation. These include attachment, proliferation/accumulation/maturation and dispersal. Biofilm can either be found as adherent to a surface or as floating aggregates.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Strong (this is a scientific review)
DELEGATE VOTE: Agree: 100%, Disagree: 0%, Abstain: 0% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus)
