Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of active CNV?

The characteristic identified as stable CNV membrane is indeed not associated with active choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Active CNV typically involves dynamic and often aggressive processes where the neovascular membranes are unstable, leading to significant changes in the retinal architecture.

Fluid accumulation, hemorrhage, and decreased vision are hallmark features of active CNV. Fluid accumulation occurs due to the leakage from the newly formed, abnormal blood vessels, which leads to retinal edema and contributes to vision impairment. Hemorrhage can also occur when these fragile vessels rupture, introducing blood into the subretinal space and exacerbating damage to the retinal layers. Decreased vision is a direct result of the aforementioned factors; as the structural integrity of the retina is compromised and fluid exudation occurs, vision is adversely affected.

In contrast, a stable CNV membrane would imply a more quiescent state, where the regrowth of abnormal blood vessels is not actively contributing to retinal damage or visual change, making it inconsistent with the active process characterized by CNV.