Sterilitäts

Sterilitäts is a term used in several languages to denote sterility, the state of being unable to reproduce or of being free from viable microorganisms, depending on context. In microbiology and medicine, sterility refers to the absence of any viable microorganisms in a product, device, or environment. Achieving sterility typically involves sterilization, a process that eliminates or destroys all forms of microbial life. Common methods include moist heat (steam autoclaving), dry heat, radiation (gamma or electron-beam), chemical sterilants (glutaraldehyde, hydrogen peroxide plasma, peracetic acid), and filtration (for heat-sensitive liquids). Sterility is validated by achieving a stated sterility assurance level (often 10^-6 in medical devices) and is safeguarded by aseptic technique and validated packaging.

In reproductive biology, sterility describes an inability to produce offspring. This can be congenital or acquired in one or both sexes and may result from anatomical blockages, impaired gamete production, hormonal imbalances, or immune factors. Diagnoses rely on medical history, semen analysis or ovulatory assessment, and imaging. Treatments range from fertility therapies to assisted reproductive technologies; in many contexts, sterility is regarded as a medical condition rather than an absolute state of non-reproduction.

Sterility is distinct from disinfection or sanitization; those processes reduce microbial load but do not guarantee full sterility. Regulatory frameworks in healthcare require documented sterility testing and validated sterilization processes for products intended for injection or sterile administration.