Biofilm Implant Related Infections, 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

Biofilm formation is the key factor in the pathogenesis of implant-associated infections. The most common pathogens isolated from such infections are Staphylococcus species, opportunists belonging to the physiological flora of the skin, but other bacteria or fungi can also be involved in these types of infections. Biofilm formation starts with the adhesion of microorganisms and colonization preferentially occurring on the surfaces of a foreign body material. As an interactive symbiotic “city of microbes”, biofilm formation represents an efficient survival strategy for bacteria. In clinically apparent infections, biofilms induce a local host response, involving the infiltration of phagocytic immune cells. Biofilm implant-related infections represent serious acute as well as chronic complications, with high morbidity for the patient and elevated costs for the healthcare system. These infections are typically due to the presence of several bacterial species that are able to produce biofilms. Biofilms are able to adhere to implanted biomaterials (e.g., prosthetic implants, endotracheal tubes, intravenous catheters, indwelling urinary catheters, tissue fillers). Microbial biofilms make infections more refractory to treatment, while slowing tissue repair by stimulating chronic inflammation at the implant site. Preventive measures should be focused primarily on discouraging biofilm formation by protecting implant surfaces with coatings that are able to inhibit bacterial adhesion while maintaining the functional activity of host cells for good implant integration. Further investigations are needed to develop reliable animal models that more closely mimic different infections and allow for the evaluation of the efficacy of surgical procedures as well as systemic or local therapies. To enhance the detection of implant-related infections, additional investigative methods are being explored, such as culture-independent molecular techniques. The purpose of this Research Topic is to provide the reader with an updated overview of infections related to implants. We welcome manuscripts presenting the current state of the art and providing novel scientific knowledge in view of an improvement in the knowledge on implants, new etiologic agents, and biofilm-related infections.

Dr. Lorenzo Drago
Guest Editor

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• biofilm-related infections
• implants
• diagnosis
• treatment

• Biofilm Implant Related Infections in Microorganisms (11 articles)