Microbial biofilm in catheter lumen

Microbial biofilms in catheter lumens are complex, multicellular communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix consisting of polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular DNA (Donlan, R. M., 2001, PMID: 11281858). These biofilms develop on the internal surfaces of indwelling medical devices, such as central venous catheters (CVCs) and urinary catheters, where they serve as a reservoir for persistent infections (StatPearls, 2023, NBK535361). The biofilm structure provides a physical and chemical barrier that protects embedded pathogens from host immune responses and increases their tolerance to systemic antibiotics by up to 1,000-fold compared to planktonic cells (CDC, 2011). Therapeutic interventions specifically target the biofilm by using antimicrobial lock solutions (e.g., taurolidine, ethanol), impregnated coatings (e.g., minocycline-rifampin), or enzymatic agents designed to degrade the EPS matrix (NIH, 2022). Eradicating these biofilms is essential for preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), which are major causes of morbidity in healthcare settings.

Other names

Catheter-associated biofilmIntraluminal biofilmBiofilm matrixExtracellular polymeric substance matrix

Disruption of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, inhibition of microbial adhesion, and bactericidal activity against sessile organisms.