What condition is characterized by inflammation of the vertebrae?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the vertebrae is spondylitis. This term specifically refers to various forms of inflammatory arthritis that affect the spine and the sacroiliac joints, commonly leading to pain and stiffness. In cases of spondylitis, inflammation can result in fusion of the spine, causing significant mobility issues and discomfort over time.

Osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease primarily involve wear and tear of the joints and intervertebral discs, leading to degeneration rather than inflammation of the vertebrae themselves. Rheumatoid arthritis, while it is an inflammatory condition, affects multiple joints throughout the body and is not limited to the vertebrae; it usually has a systemic involvement which includes areas beyond just the spinal column. Therefore, the specific nature of spondylitis allows it to be the definitive answer when discussing inflammation directly related to the vertebral structure.