Which of the following is a cause of posterior vitreous detachment?

Posterior vitreous detachment occurs when the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye, separates from the retina. This separation can be linked to several factors, with synchysis of the vitreous humor being a primary cause. Synchysis refers to the liquefaction and degeneration of the vitreous gel over time, often associated with aging or certain conditions that cause changes in the vitreous body. As the gel begins to shrink and liquefy, it can create a more fluid environment that predisposes the vitreous to detach from the retina.

This contrasts with the other conditions listed. Infection generally affects the eye in a different capacity, typically leading to other complications, but not directly causing posterior vitreous detachment. Cataract formation involves the lens of the eye becoming cloudy and does not impact the vitreous body directly. Similarly, corneal abrasion pertains specifically to the superficial layer of the eye's surface and would not be linked to the separation of the vitreous humor from the retina. Understanding the anatomy and physiological changes within the eye provides critical insight into the mechanisms of these various conditions.