Which term represents a pathological condition that develops slowly and persists for a long time?

The term that represents a pathological condition that develops slowly and persists for a long time is "chronic." Chronic conditions are characterized by their gradual onset and can last for extended periods, often for months or years. This type of condition typically involves ongoing health issues that can be managed but not necessarily cured, which distinguishes it from acute conditions that arise suddenly and are usually of shorter duration.

In comparison, acute conditions present suddenly and require immediate attention but are generally short-lived. Subacute conditions fall between acute and chronic; they can last longer than acute conditions but are not persistent. Intermittent refers to conditions that occur sporadically rather than consistently over time. Hence, "chronic" accurately describes a long-lasting pathological condition that can significantly impact a patient's life.