Significance of Biofilm-Adherent Bacterial Microcolonies on Tenckhoff Catheters of CAPD Patients

Authors:
  • JCJ.W. Costerton
    J.W. Costerton
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Abstract
The phenomenon of biofilm bacterial adherence to bioprosthetic devices and their relationship to various human infections are now well established. We have recently demonstrated that biofilm bacterial colonization of Tenckhoff catheters (TC) is very common in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) treatment. Based on our current work related to isolation of biofilm bacteria from peritoneal effluents of CAPD patients, we describe a novel way of diagnosis of this form of infection by using a modified Robbins device. Additionally, we describe the possible interaction of host defense factors with biofilm bacteria and ways to eliminate their colonization of TC for developing an overall strategy to prevent CAPD-associated peritonitis.