What is a potential complication of untreated chronic peptic ulcer disease?

Untreated chronic peptic ulcer disease can lead to several complications, one of the most serious being gastrointestinal bleeding. This occurs when the ulcer erodes into a blood vessel, causing bleeding that can range from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms may include hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (black, tarry stools). The severity of bleeding often necessitates urgent medical intervention, as it can lead to significant blood loss and shock.

While the other options listed can also be complications of chronic peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal bleeding is often recognized as one of the major acute complications that can arise from the disease. It is vital for healthcare providers to monitor for signs of bleeding in patients with chronic ulcers, as timely management can prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes.