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Mixed-Species Biofilm Compromises Wound Healing by Disrupting Epidermal Barrier Function

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Biofilm, Pilonidal Cysts and Sinuses

Part of the book series: Recent Clinical Techniques, Results, and Research in Wounds ((RCTRRW,volume 1))

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Abstract

Biofilm represents a specialized growth form of bacteria that allows them to evade both diagnosis and eradication. Though a recent discovery, biofilm permeates medicine and is especially impactful on chronic wounds. Biofilm negatively impacts wound healing by allowing for prolonged inflammation, evasion of host immune responses, and disruption of the skin barrier function. Although wounds with biofilm infection are able to heal and re-epithelialize, the barrier function of the skin is quite compromised due to a direct effect on the functioning of tight junctions. The overall result of impaired skin barrier function can be increased risk of infection and additional complications.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Plastic Surgery, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 915 Olentangy River Road, Suite 2100, Columbus, OH, 43212, USA

    Terri A. Zomerlei & Gayle M. Gordillo M.D.

Authors
  1. Terri A. Zomerlei
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  2. Gayle M. Gordillo M.D.
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gayle M. Gordillo M.D. .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Tustin, CA, USA

    Melvin A. Shiffman

  2. Newport Beach, CA, USA

    Mervin Low

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Zomerlei, T.A., Gordillo, G.M. (2017). Mixed-Species Biofilm Compromises Wound Healing by Disrupting Epidermal Barrier Function. In: Shiffman, M., Low, M. (eds) Biofilm, Pilonidal Cysts and Sinuses. Recent Clinical Techniques, Results, and Research in Wounds, vol 1. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/15695_2017_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/15695_2017_3

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-03076-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-03077-3

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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