Biofilm formation-one of the fungi’s virulence factors

Abstract

Introduction. The biofilms’ formation plays a significant role in the pathogenicity of fungi and the development of human infections.Material and methods. The paper analyzes the most relevant and up-todate publications in the medical literature in the country and abroad, using online medical databases.Results. The ability of fungi to form biofilms and the presence of other virulence factors (thermotolerance, ability to produce melanin, mannitol and catalase, the ability to obtain Fe, the ability to change their shape) stimulates the survival and persistence of fungi in the host organism.Conclusions. The ability of fungal species to form biofilms is an important pathogenicity factor, which must be the main target of antifungal treatment.