Melioidosis is an infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. The bacteria are able to grow as planktonic and biofilm phenotypes. There is as yet no vaccine available for B. pseudomallei. The infection is common in northern parts of Thailand.
To summarize current knowledge regarding B. pseudomallei and its biofilm growth phenotype.
A literature search using MEDLINE (PubMed), SCOPUS, and OVID/LWWW databases.
The virulence factors of B. pseudomallei are important in biofilm formation. The properties to produce biofilms promote pathogenesis of disease.
Biofilm formation is a virulence factor and plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of melioidosis. The relationship of biofilms to relapse needs more study.