Biofilms May Slow Wound Healing in Horses

Biofilm is a term that has been used to describe a phenomenon found in slow-healing human wounds. The same concept has now been found in horses.

A biofilm is formed when microorganisms become attached to a wound’s surface and encased within a matrix of compounds known as extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The substances, which are secreted by the microorganisms, form an attachment to tissues at the wound’s surface, protecting the bacteria from attack by the host’s immune system and antibiotics and hindering healing.

In a study at the University of Liverpool, researchers examined chronic nonhealing wounds in 13 horses. Evidence of biofilms was found in more than half the wounds. The wounds also had a high percentage of biofilm-forming bacteria.

Early wound care is important in minimizing the formation of biofilms, especially thorough cleaning with a topical antiseptic. To treat wounds where a biofilm has already formed, infected tissue should be removed and the horse should be started on systemic antibiotic treatment.