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How does treatment of biofilm infections differ from treatment of non-biofilm infections?

User Elph
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Final answer:

Biofilm infections differ from non-biofilm infections in terms of their increased resistance to antibiotics and other treatments. The protective matrix of biofilms and the presence of persister cells make them difficult to eradicate. Therefore, treatment of biofilm infections often requires different strategies, such as combination therapies or higher antibiotic concentrations.

Step-by-step explanation:

When it comes to the treatment of biofilm infections, it differs from the treatment of non-biofilm infections primarily due to the increased resistance of biofilms to antibiotics and other treatments. Biofilms are microbial communities that attach to surfaces, produce a protective matrix, and become very difficult to destroy. The extracellular matrix provides a physical barrier to antibiotics, shielding the target cells from exposure, and nutrient limitations within biofilms add another level of resistance. In addition, biofilms can contain subpopulations of dormant cells called persister cells, which further contribute to resistance. Therefore, treatment of biofilm infections often requires different strategies, such as combination therapies, higher antibiotic concentrations, or alternative treatment methods.

User Nay Lin Aung
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