What condition is characterized by clouding of the lens?

Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the lens, which is the transparent structure in the eye that helps focus light onto the retina. This clouding results in blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and increased sensitivity to glare. The cataract itself can develop gradually and may eventually interfere significantly with daily activities by further impairing vision.

In contrast, the other conditions listed are related to different specific issues in the eye. Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve often due to increased intraocular pressure. Macular degeneration affects the macula, leading to loss of central vision, often associated with aging. Retinal detachment refers to the separation of the retina from the underlying tissue, leading to sudden vision loss. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and affects different parts of the eye, but none involves the lens becoming cloudy as seen in cataracts.