What does "ileus" indicate in a patient?

Ileus refers to a condition in which there is a significant decrease or complete absence of peristalsis in the intestines, leading to the inability of the bowel to move contents effectively. This lack of movement can result in a buildup of air and fluids within the intestines, which can be observed on imaging studies. The presence of air-fluid levels is characteristic of ileus, distinguishing it from other gastrointestinal conditions.

In contrast, conditions with excessive peristalsis might indicate a different gastrointestinal issue, such as diarrhea or certain types of obstruction where the intestines are overactive. A buildup of solid waste typically implies a different type of obstruction which may occur due to factors such as strictures or tumors, but does not describe the absence of movement that characterizes ileus. Similarly, while tumors can lead to blockages, they do not specifically define the condition of ileus itself, which focuses on the functional aspect of peristalsis rather than physical obstructions. Thus, the correct answer highlights the characteristic presentation of ileus in relation to the accumulation of air and fluids due to the lack of intestinal movement.