Encrustations formed from microbes (bacteria, algae, fungi, plankton, or protozoa) embedded in an EXTRACELLULAR POLYMERIC SUBSTANCE MATRIX that is secreted by the microbes. They occur on body surfaces such as teeth (DENTAL DEPOSITS); inanimate objects, and bodies of water. Biofilms are prevented from forming by treating surfaces with DENTIFRICES; DISINFECTANTS; ANTI-INFECTIVE AGENTS; and anti-fouling agents.

Annotation

coordinate with specific organism /physiol; occurrence of biofilms on prostheses or other devices: coordinate with specific device; infection of prostheses by biofilms: coordinate BIOFILMS with specific prosthesis + PROSTHESIS-RELATED INFECTIONS + specific infection

DUI

D018441 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0027664

Previous indexing

Bacteria (1981-1994)

History note

95

Public note

95