Which of the following is a potential complication of untreated asthma?

Untreated asthma can lead to chronic respiratory issues, including the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Asthma, characterized by airway inflammation and hyperreactivity, can cause irreversible airway remodeling over time if not properly managed. This can result in chronic obstructive symptoms similar to those seen in COPD, such as persistent airflow limitation and breathing difficulties.

While other options like pneumonia can occur secondary to a severe asthmatic episode due to inflammation and impaired gas exchange, they are not direct complications of long-term untreated asthma in the same manner that COPD is. Similarly, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and sudden cardiac arrest are not commonly linked as direct results of untreated asthma. In summary, the progression of untreated asthma can resemble the pathology of COPD, making it a significant and relevant concern in asthma management.