What is a possible complication of untreated syphilis?

Untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications, one of which includes cardiovascular problems. In the late stages of syphilis, particularly tertiary syphilis, a person can develop aortitis, which is inflammation of the aorta, leading to cardiovascular complications. This can manifest as aneurysms or other forms of cardiovascular distress due to the systemic effect of the infection. The ability of the Treponema pallidum bacterium, which causes syphilis, to affect multiple organ systems over time is well documented, making cardiovascular issues a notable risk for individuals who do not receive appropriate treatment.

In contrast, the other options are not directly linked to the primary sequelae of untreated syphilis. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex disorder that is not specifically associated with syphilis. Dental disease also does not have a strong connection to syphilis, as dental issues arise from different factors unrelated to this infection. Similarly, while short-term memory loss can occur in various situations, it is not a recognized consequence of untreated syphilis, unlike the cardiovascular issues that can result from the disease's progression.