What can lead to severe complications in untreated tertiary syphilis?

Severe complications in untreated tertiary syphilis primarily arise from the effects of the disease on various organ systems, specifically leading to gummas and cardiovascular issues. Gummas are soft, tumor-like growths that can develop in various tissues and organs, including the skin, bones, and internal organs. These lesions are a characteristic manifestation of tertiary syphilis, resulting from the immune response to the continuing infection.

Cardiovascular issues associated with tertiary syphilis include aortitis, which can lead to aneurysms, cardiovascular collapse, and other serious heart conditions. The spirochete bacterium that causes syphilis can damage blood vessels over time, significantly increasing the risk of life-threatening complications.

In contrast, the other options do not relate to the severe manifestations of tertiary syphilis. Minor skin irritations, frequent colds, and temporary headaches are not recognized as complications associated with this advanced stage of syphilis, indicating that they do not pose the same level of health risk as gummas and cardiovascular problems. Thus, the most significant and dangerous consequences of untreated tertiary syphilis are indeed gummas and cardiovascular issues.