Significance of Opportunistic bacteria
Opportunistic bacteria are those that can lead to disease in individuals whose immune systems are weakened. An example of such a bacterium is Staphylococcus epidermidis, which can cause skin infections. These bacteria typically do not cause illness in healthy individuals but can become harmful when the host's defenses are lowered, highlighting the importance of a robust immune system in preventing infections.
Synonyms: Pathogenic bacteria, Opportunistic microorganisms, Transient flora
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The concept of Opportunistic bacteria in scientific sources
Opportunistic bacteria, like Staphylococcus epidermidis, cause diseases primarily when a host's immune system is weakened, highlighting their role in infections among vulnerable individuals.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Bacteria that may cause disease under certain conditions, highlighting the need for safety evaluations of probiotic candidates.[1] (2) Bacteria that can cause disease when the host's immune system is compromised, exemplified by Staphylococcus epidermidis in skin infections.[2]