What is one potential consequence of untreated chlamydial conjunctivitis in newborns?

Untreated chlamydial conjunctivitis in newborns can lead to severe visual impairment due to the infection's potential to cause complications such as corneal scarring and other damage to the eye structures. Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can arise during delivery if the mother is infected, and if not treated appropriately, it can result in chronic inflammation and damage, ultimately affecting the vision of the infant. Early identification and management are crucial to prevent long-term consequences that can affect the child's visual development.

The other outcomes, such as rapid healing, reduced susceptibility to infections, or a lower risk of developing strabismus, do not realistically occur as a result of untreated chlamydial conjunctivitis. Instead, they either minimize the severity of the problem or suggest an improvement in health that contradicts the nature of the infection and its potential consequences.