What is a key feature of an erosive form of acute gastritis?

A key feature of erosive acute gastritis is indeed the presence of superficial or deep erosions on the gastric mucosa. Erosive gastritis is characterized by these breaks in the mucosal lining, which can occur due to various factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or severe stress. These erosions can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and, in some cases, gastrointestinal bleeding.

The other options reference symptoms or conditions that are not specific to erosive acute gastritis. For instance, while excessive vomiting of blood can occur due to significant bleeding from erosions, it is not a defining feature of the condition itself. The growth of polyps is not associated with acute gastritis, as polyps are typically a chronic condition rather than acute. Swelling of the abdominal wall is not a characteristic symptom of gastritis; rather, it can be seen in various other abdominal conditions. Understanding these nuances helps clarify why the presence of erosions is the hallmark of erosive acute gastritis.