What term describes the act of vomiting blood?

The act of vomiting blood is referred to as hematemesis. This term derives from the Greek words "haima," meaning blood, and "emesis," meaning vomiting. Hematemesis is a significant medical symptom indicating that there may be bleeding within the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This can occur due to various conditions, such as peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, or severe gastritis that leads to the erosion of the stomach lining.

The other terms provided in the choices represent different conditions or symptoms that are not related to vomiting blood. Melena refers to the passage of dark, tarry stools and indicates bleeding in the lower GI tract. Pyrosis describes heartburn or acid reflux, which is a sensation of burning in the chest due to stomach acid rising into the esophagus. Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain and nausea, but does not specifically describe the act of vomiting blood.