Which of the following diseases is characterized by the formation of a biofilm?

• A. Tuberculosis
• B. Malaria
• C. Influenza
• D. Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand what a biofilm is: a biofilm is a structured community of microbial cells enclosed in a self-produced polymeric matrix that adheres to surfaces, often contributing to chronic infections.
2. Review the diseases listed and identify which are typically associated with biofilm formation. Tuberculosis involves granulomas, malaria is caused by a protozoan parasite without biofilm formation, and influenza is a viral infection without biofilms.
3. Recognize that Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients is well-known for biofilm formation, where the bacteria produce a protective matrix that makes the infection persistent and resistant to treatment.
4. Conclude that among the options, the disease characterized by biofilm formation is the chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients.
5. Summarize that biofilm formation is a key factor in the chronicity and antibiotic resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis, distinguishing it from the other diseases listed.