∞ generated and posted on 2023.05.24 ∞
Attachment of microorganisms to tissues or other surfaces, especially intentionally on the part of the microorganism.
| Adherence to a surface, such as a mucous membrane, is one of the first steps of successful pathogenesis for a microorganism, such as a bacterium. |
Though not necessarily a concept of pathogenesis, adherence can also occur to abiotic surfaces, including in terms of devices that are implanted or which otherwise are in ongoing contact with the body such as catheters.
Contrast attachment or adsorption as a key early step of pathogenesis for viruses.
There are other biologically relevant definitions of Adherence; e.g., see the Wikipedia disambiguation page on adherence. See also adherence as an important aspect of phagocytosis.