Which condition is characterized by impaired intestinal absorption of nutrients?

The condition characterized by impaired intestinal absorption of nutrients is malabsorption syndrome. This syndrome includes a variety of disorders where the small intestine cannot adequately absorb certain nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals from the food consumed. Patients with malabsorption syndrome often experience symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, and nutritional deficiencies due to the inability to effectively absorb nutrients.

In contrast, cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones, which can lead to issues with bile flow but is not directly associated with the absorption process of nutrients in the intestines. Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can affect digestion, particularly the digestion of fats and proteins, but it is not defined primarily by problems with nutrient absorption as its main feature. Cirrhosis is advanced scarring of the liver that can lead to various metabolic and digestive problems but is not directly associated with the intestines themselves failing to absorb nutrients. Therefore, malabsorption syndrome specifically targets the dysfunction in nutrient absorption, making it the correct answer.