Which term denotes inflammation of the stomach and intestines?

• A. Gastroenteritis
• B. Hemorrhoids
• C. Appendicitis
• D. Cirrhosis

Answer: (A)

Inflammation of the stomach and intestines is gastroenteritis. The term combines gastr/o (stomach) and enter/o (intestine) with -itis (inflammation), signaling that both organs are affected. If inflammation were only in the stomach it would be gastritis, or only in the intestine it would be enteritis, but this term specifically means both. The other conditions refer to different parts or systems: hemorrhoids involve swollen anal veins; appendicitis involves the appendix; cirrhosis is liver scarring. Gastroenteritis often presents with vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, and is typically caused by infections or contaminated food or water.