What term refers to the inflammation of the small intestinal wall?

The correct term for the inflammation of the small intestinal wall is coeliac disease. This autoimmune condition occurs in genetically predisposed individuals and is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with coeliac disease consumes gluten, their immune system mistakenly targets the small intestine’s lining, leading to inflammation. This inflammation can cause a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malabsorption of nutrients, which can lead to further complications if not managed with a strict gluten-free diet.

Appendicitis refers to the inflammation of the appendix, which is a different part of the digestive system. Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining rather than the small intestine. Crohn's disease, while it can affect the small intestine, can also impact any part of the gastrointestinal tract and is characterized by chronic inflammation, which makes the condition quite different from coeliac disease.