Which condition is inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites, commonly called 'stomach flu'?

• A. Gastroenteritis
• B. Peritonitis
• C. Gallstones
• D. Cirrhosis

Answer: (A)

Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites is gastroenteritis. It’s commonly called the stomach flu, even though it isn’t caused by influenza; the term simply reflects the viral or infectious illness that affects the gut, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity, and it presents with severe, often diffuse abdominal pain and tenderness that require urgent care. Gallstones involve stones in the gallbladder or biliary tract and cause right upper‑quadrant pain rather than inflammation of the intestinal lining. Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver over time and isn’t about intestinal lining inflammation. Therefore, gastroenteritis is the correct term.