Which condition is characterized by inflammation of the gastric lining?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the gastric lining is gastritis. This inflammation can be caused by various factors, including infection, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excess alcohol consumption, or autoimmune disorders. In gastritis, the protective lining of the stomach becomes irritated and can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion.

In contrast, gastric reflux primarily involves the backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation but does not specifically pertain to inflammation of the gastric lining. Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often due to infections, but it is not limited to the gastric lining and typically involves symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. Peptic ulcer disease involves the formation of ulcers in the stomach lining or the upper part of the small intestine rather than inflammation itself, although inflammation can be a secondary effect of the ulcers. Hence, the defining characteristic of gastritis as the inflammation of the gastric lining makes it the correct choice.