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Untreated rheumatoid arthritis can lead to significant long-term consequences, particularly joint destruction and disability. This autoimmune condition causes inflammation of the joints, which, when left unmanaged, can lead to progressive damage to cartilage and bone. As the disease advances, patients often experience increased pain, swelling, and stiffness, ultimately resulting in the loss of function in the affected joints. Over time, this can severely impact a person's mobility and ability to perform daily activities, increasing the risk of disability.

In contrast, the other outcomes listed are not aligned with the realities of untreated rheumatoid arthritis. Improved joint flexibility would suggest a beneficial effect, which is not typically seen as inflammation worsens. Enhanced immune response is misleading since rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by an autoimmune attack where the body's immune system is actually overactive and misdirected. Finally, untreated rheumatoid arthritis does not decrease the risk of infection; rather, the immunosuppressive treatments commonly prescribed to manage the disease often increase susceptibility to infections. Thus, recognizing joint destruction and disability as a potential outcome of untreated rheumatoid arthritis underscores the critical importance of early detection and treatment of the condition.