Which of the following conditions is characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure?

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is characterized by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure due to a rapid closure of the anterior chamber angle. This closure prevents aqueous humor from draining through the trabecular meshwork, leading to a buildup of fluid in the eye. The condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, and halos around lights, indicating the urgency of the situation.

In contrast, open-angle glaucoma progresses more gradually and typically involves a slow increase in intraocular pressure due to a progressive blockage of the drainage canals without the acute symptoms associated with angle-closure. Chronic dry eye syndrome does not directly affect intraocular pressure, but rather involves inadequate tear production or excessive tear evaporation, leading to discomfort rather than increased pressure. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to various ocular issues, such as night blindness or xerophthalmia, but it does not cause a sudden increase in intraocular pressure.