sterilitást

Sterility is the state of being free from viable microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and their spores. In medicine, microbiology, and industry, sterility denotes an environment, product, or sample free of living agents capable of replication. It is essential for instruments, surgical fields, and culture media to be sterile to prevent contamination and infection. In Hungarian, the equivalent term is sterilitás.

Sterilization encompasses the processes used to achieve sterility. Physical methods include moist heat (autoclaving) at 121°C for 15–20 minutes and dry heat at higher temperatures. Filtration removes microbes from liquids. Radiation methods use gamma rays or electron beams. Chemical methods employ agents such as ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide plasma. Validation combines process parameters with indicators and periodic biological testing.

In healthcare and laboratory practice, sterile technique and asepsis reduce infection risk during procedures. This includes proper sterilization of instruments, maintaining a sterile field, packaging, handling, and transport of sterile items, and regular monitoring of sterilization cycles and facility cleanliness.

Sterility also relates to reproduction. Sterility can mean infertility—the permanent inability to conceive. Medical sterilization, such as tubal ligation or vasectomy, is a common permanent contraception method. In agriculture, sterile-insect techniques use irradiation to release sterile insects and suppress pest populations.

Standards and verification frameworks ensure consistent results. Claims of sterility rely on validated processes and testing, including biological indicators and regulatory guidelines from organizations such as ISO and national authorities. It is important to recognize that sterility is defined within specified limits and is not an absolute guarantee in all contexts.