Sterility Test Failure: Impact on Complete Manufacturing Campaign and Batch Disposition
Sterility testing is a critical quality control procedure that verifies whether a product meets the sterility requirements described in pharmacopeial standards such as USP and Ph. Eur. 2.6.1. A sterility test failure is a serious event in pharmaceutical manufacturing and can have a significant impact not only on the tested batch but also on all batches manufactured in the same campaign or block. 🔬 Understanding Sterility Test Failure A sterility failure occurs when microbial growth is observed in one or more test units during the incubation period of a sterility test. Before concluding that the product is contaminated, a thorough investigation must be initiated to determine whether the failure resulted from laboratory error, environmental contamination, or a true product failure. 📋 Initial Actions Upon Sterility Test Failure Immediately quarantine all batches from the same manufacturing campaign or block. Notify the Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) depar...