What condition is characterized by the presence of red blood cells in the anterior chamber of the eye?

The presence of red blood cells in the anterior chamber of the eye is known as hyphema. This condition typically arises from trauma to the eye, which can cause bleeding from the iris or other structures within the anterior chamber. The accumulation of blood in this area can lead to visual disturbances and increased intraocular pressure, necessitating appropriate medical evaluation and management.

In contrast, retinal detachment involves the separation of the retina from the underlying supportive tissue, usually leading to symptoms like flashes of light or a shadow in the visual field, but it does not specifically involve red blood cell accumulation in the anterior chamber. Corneal abrasion refers to a scratch on the cornea, which may cause pain and watering of the eye, but again, it does not involve bleeding into the anterior chamber. Macular degeneration is a progressive condition affecting the central part of the retina, leading to vision loss, but it does not present with blood in the anterior chamber either. Thus, hyphema is the specific condition that correctly describes the situation presented in this question.