The theoretical alterations of wound healing caused by infection apply to the clinical situation. The level of bacteria is clinically important as are the specific qualities of a given species. This latter consideration has not been as completely studied as have the quantitative aspects. However, as pharmacologic means of overcoming the wound healing alterations are sought, specific bacterial species' idiosyncrasies will have to be examined. This has already been identified for the beta-hemolytic streptococcus. That species has not adhered to the level of greater than 10(5) organisms to produce wound complications. It has been repeatedly shown to cause wound problems at a much lower inoculum. Similar information may become available for other organisms. However, it is clear that because wound healing in the clinical situation occurs in the presence of bacteria, it is important to be aware of potential alterations in the repair process that these bacteria can cause.