Which eye condition is characterized by increased intraocular pressure?

The eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure is glaucoma. This condition occurs when the pressure inside the eye rises due to an imbalance between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, the fluid that nourishes the eye and maintains its shape. Over time, elevated intraocular pressure can lead to damage of the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss if not managed properly.

In the context of other options, retinitis pigmentosa involves the progressive degeneration of the retina and is not primarily associated with intraocular pressure. Macular degeneration affects the central part of the retina, impacting vision but does not typically involve elevated eye pressure. Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, leading to blurred vision, but it is not connected to intraocular pressure levels. Understanding the relationship between intraocular pressure and glaucoma is crucial for recognizing the importance of early detection and treatment of this potentially debilitating condition.