What does cystitis refer to?

Cystitis specifically refers to the inflammation of the bladder's lining, most commonly resulting from an infection, which is categorized as an infection of the lower urinary tract. It primarily affects the bladder, which is integral to the urinary system's function. Conditions like cystitis can lead to various symptoms, including frequent and painful urination, urgency to urinate, and lower abdominal discomfort. This understanding connects cystitis directly to the urinary tract, especially the lower section, highlighting its significance and relevance in medical assessments.

The other options refer to different conditions: an infection of the kidneys describes pyelonephritis, which involves the upper urinary tract, while urinary tract obstructions can have various causes and do not specifically refer to cystitis.