In vitro Actinomyces israelii biofilm development on IUD copper surfaces

Abstract

Background: Female pelvic actinomycosis may involve fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus and bladder. This condition is often associated with the use of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs), vaginal pessaries and/or tampons. The predominant causative agent of human actinomycosis is Actinomyces israelii, which has been found on copper IUDs retrieved from patients.

Study design: In this work, a biofilm of A. israelii was developed in vitro on copper surfaces immersed in a simulated uterine fluid under anaerobic conditions. The biofilm was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray and atomic force microscopy.

Results: The capacity of A. israelii to develop a biofilm over copper surfaces in synthetic media was demonstrated. SEM micrographies illustrate the exopolysaccharides production and bacterial distribution.

Conclusion: A. israelii was able to attach and grow in synthetic intrauterine media and to present on the copper surface is likely due to the production of biofilm.