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Updated: Oct 18, 2025
Determination of Biofilm Initiation on Virus-infected Cells by Bacteria and Fungi
Published on: July 6, 2016
Biofilm Producing Enterococcus Isolates from Vaginal Microbiota
Mallika Sengupta1, Soma Sarkar2, Manideepa SenGupta3
1Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Kalyani, Kalyani 741245, West Bengal, India.
Background:
Enterococcus is an important cause of infection in the hospital as well as in the community.
Methods:
A prospective study was done in Medical College, Kolkata for a period of 2 years (from January 2018 to December 2019). After obtaining clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee, Enterococcus isolates from cases of vaginitis were included in the study. Identification of Enterococcus species was done by Gram stain and conventional biochemical tests along with automated identification by VITEK 2 Compact. These isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility to different antibiotics by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by VITEK 2 Compact. Interpretation of susceptibility was done according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) 2017 guidelines. Biofilm detection for Enterococcus species was done.
Results:
During the period of 2 years, 39 isolates of Enterococcus spp. were obtained from vaginitis cases. Among these, 27 were Enterococcus faecalis and 12 Enterococcus faecium. All isolates were highly susceptible to vancomycin, teicoplanin, and linezolid. Biofilm was detected in eight isolates of which five were strong biofilm producer and three moderate biofilm producers.
Conclusion:
Biofilm production is an important virulence factor in Enterococcus isolates from vaginitis.
Insights
Enterococcus species are a common cause of vaginitis. Biofilm production in these isolates is a significant virulence factor, highlighting its role in infection.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Science
Background:
- Enterococcus species are significant pathogens causing infections in both hospital and community settings.
- Vaginitis is a common condition where Enterococcus can be implicated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of Enterococcus isolates from vaginitis cases.
- To determine antimicrobial susceptibility and biofilm production in these isolates.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study conducted over two years.
- Identification using Gram stain, biochemical tests, and VITEK 2 Compact.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing via disc diffusion and MIC determination.
- Biofilm detection assays performed on isolates.
Main Results:
- 39 Enterococcus isolates were identified from vaginitis cases (27 Enterococcus faecalis, 12 Enterococcus faecium).
- All isolates demonstrated high susceptibility to vancomycin, teicoplanin, and linezolid.
- Eight isolates (61.5%) exhibited biofilm production, with five strong and three moderate producers.
Conclusions:
- Biofilm production is a key virulence factor in Enterococcus isolates associated with vaginitis.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for managing Enterococcus-related vaginitis.
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