What is one possible complication of untreated membranous nephropathy?

Membranous nephropathy is a kidney condition that can lead to significant complications if left untreated. One of the major risks associated with untreated membranous nephropathy is the progression to chronic kidney disease. This occurs because the damage to the glomeruli (the filtering units of the kidneys) impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood effectively. Over time, persistent damage leads to a decline in kidney function, which can eventually result in chronic kidney disease.

In the context of the other options, while severe hypertension can be a consequence of kidney disease, it is not a direct complication of membranous nephropathy itself. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that is unrelated to membranous nephropathy, and liver failure is a separate medical condition that typically stems from liver issues, not kidney problems. Therefore, chronic kidney disease stands out as the direct and serious consequence of untreated membranous nephropathy.