What does amblyopia refer to?

Amblyopia is defined as a loss of vision in one or both eyes that occurs without any apparent disease of the eye. This condition often arises during childhood, where the brain and the affected eye do not work together effectively. As a result, the brain tends to favor the other eye, leading to a reduction in visual acuity in the amblyopic eye. This is not due to any structural or anatomical problems with the eye itself, which distinguishes amblyopia from other eye conditions that might involve physiological changes or require surgical intervention.

The other options represent distinct concepts in eye health. A type of refractive error pertains to issues such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, which are related to the eye's ability to bend light properly. An eye condition requiring surgery typically involves anatomical or pathological issues, such as cataracts or retinal detachment, rather than the functional miscommunication characterized by amblyopia. Increased eye pressure usually indicates glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss if untreated but is not related to the developmental aspect of amblyopia.