wie lange darf man eine stuhlprobe aufbewahren — what does this mean exactly?

The storage time for a stool sample depends on the intended analysis. For routine microbiological culture, the sample should be processed within 1–2 hours or refrigerated (4 °C) for up to 24 hours. For molecular tests (e.g., colorectal cancer screening, microbiome profiling), many commercial kits include a preservative buffer that stabilizes DNA at room temperature for several days to weeks. Without preservative, bacterial DNA degrades quickly, and results may become unreliable. For consumer microbiome tests (e.g., MyBody-X), follow the kit instructions: typically, the sample can be stored at room temperature for up to 7–14 days if the collection tube contains a stabilization solution. Always check the expiration date and avoid extreme heat. Caveat: improper storage can lead to false negatives or skewed microbial profiles. Evidence is based on standard laboratory practice and manufacturer guidelines.