Scientific Research and Essays Vol. 1 (1), 008-010, October 2006          
© 2006 Academic Journals

Review

The significance of Candida infections of medical implants

INABO, H. I.

Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru-Zaria, Nigeria. E-mail: heleninabo@yahoo.co.uk.

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Accepted 27 September, 2006

Infection of medical implants is acquired at the time of instrumentation or surgery. It is an early complication of this intrusive procedure. Biofilm formation on implanted implants such as dentures, catheters or a prosthetic heart valve may lead to Candida infections.  Factors affecting the biofilm formation and the risk factors associated with the implantation of the various medical devices are highlighted in this paper. The modification of biomaterial surface with anti–infective agents to enhance biocompatibility of the indwelling medical devices is discussed. 

Key words: Candida albicans, medical implants, biofilm, biomaterial manufacture.