Retinopathy is characterized by damage to which part of the body?

Retinopathy specifically refers to damage to the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. The retina is crucial for vision as it converts light into neural signals that are sent to the brain. Conditions such as diabetic retinopathy highlight the importance of the retina, where high blood sugar levels can lead to damage, affecting vision and leading to potential blindness if not treated appropriately. Understanding the unique function and vulnerability of the retina is key to recognizing why retinopathy is defined by damage occurring in this part of the eye. Other structures, like the cornea, optic nerve, and lens, play important roles in vision but are not associated with the condition of retinopathy.