Which serious condition can potentially result from untreated hookworm infections?

Untreated hookworm infections can lead to anemia due to blood loss, which is the correct answer. Hookworms attach to the intestinal wall and feed on the host's blood, causing significant blood loss over time. This continuous loss can deplete iron levels and lead to iron-deficiency anemia, a serious condition characterized by fatigue, weakness, and impaired organ function due to inadequate oxygen supply.

In contrast, other options such as chronic fatigue syndrome, muscle degeneration, and autoimmune disorders are not directly linked to hookworm infections. While fatigue can result from anemia, it does not encapsulate the specific mechanism by which hookworms affect the body. Muscle degeneration does not stem from a hookworm infection either, nor is there a clear connection between untreated hookworm infections and the onset of autoimmune disorders. Therefore, recognizing anemia as a direct consequence of hookworm action emphasizes the importance of treating such infections promptly to prevent serious health complications.