What condition involves the gradual loss of transparency of the crystalline lens?

The condition that involves the gradual loss of transparency of the crystalline lens is cataract. A cataract occurs when the proteins in the lens of the eye begin to clump together, leading to clouding and impairment of vision. This process often develops slowly over time and can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare as it progresses.

Cataracts are commonly associated with aging, but they can also occur due to other factors such as trauma, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light, certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes. Treatment for cataracts typically involves surgical intervention to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens, which can restore clear vision.

In contrast, glaucoma is primarily a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, commonly due to increased intraocular pressure and can lead to vision loss. Retinal detachment involves the separation of the retina from its underlying supportive tissue, which can cause sudden vision loss. Macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, leading to a loss of central vision. Each of these conditions affects the eye differently and does not involve the specific gradual clouding of the lens characteristic of cataracts.