**Core Concept**
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a large vessel vasculitis that affects the aorta and its major branches, including the temporal arteries. It is characterized by inflammation of the arterial walls, leading to stenosis, occlusion, and ischemia of the affected tissues. In the eye, GCA can cause a range of complications due to its proximity to the ophthalmic artery.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
GCA often presents with ischemic optic neuropathy (ION), which is a condition where the optic nerve is affected due to reduced blood flow. This can lead to sudden and painless loss of vision, often in one eye. The inflammation in GCA can also cause the formation of giant cells, which are characteristic of this condition. The giant cells are a type of immune cell that plays a key role in the body's response to inflammation.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because GCA does not typically cause uveitis, which is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Uveitis can be caused by a range of conditions, including infections and autoimmune disorders, but it is not a common feature of GCA.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because GCA does not typically cause cataracts, which are a clouding of the lens in the eye. While cataracts can be caused by a range of conditions, including age and trauma, they are not a common feature of GCA.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because GCA does not typically cause retinal detachment, which is a condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye. While retinal detachment can be caused by a range of conditions, including trauma and age-related macular degeneration, it is not a common feature of GCA.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with suspected GCA, it is essential to perform a temporal artery biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy should be performed within 14 days of the onset of symptoms, as the inflammation in GCA can resolve over time, making it more difficult to diagnose.

**Correct Answer: C. Ischemic optic neuropathy.**