Which of the following is not a characteristic of corneal edema?

Corneal edema is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the corneal stroma, leading to various visual disturbances and symptoms. The correct answer highlights a characteristic that is not associated with corneal edema.

Peripheral flare is typically related to inflammation in the anterior segment of the eye and indicates the presence of proteins and other inflammatory substances in the aqueous humor, which occurs in conditions such as uveitis or anterior chamber inflammation, rather than directly correlating with corneal edema.

On the other hand, smoky vision, spectacle blur, and increased keratometry (K) readings are all directly linked to corneal edema. Smoky vision results from the swelling and distortion of the corneal surface, which scatters light and leads to decreased clarity. Spectacle blur occurs as the corneal edema distorts the cornea, impacting how light is refracted and therefore how well corrective lenses work. Increased K readings arise because swelling can change the curvature of the cornea, making it appear steeper and affecting the measurements obtained during a contact lens fitting or evaluation.

Thus, peripheral flare does not fall in line with the characteristics of corneal edema, making it the correct response in the context of this question.