Pope Francis's health has taken a turn for the worse after experiencing a severe and prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis on Saturday, the Vatican announced. The 88-year-old Pontiff has been hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital for a week, battling a complex lung infection that has led to serious complications. According to the Vatican, his condition has rapidly deteriorated in recent hours.
The official statement describes his condition as "critical," and emphasizes that he is "not out of danger." The respiratory crisis on Saturday necessitated the administration of high-flow oxygen to stabilize him. Compounding his challenges, recent blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia—an abnormally low platelet count—linked to severe anemia. To address this, Pope Francis required blood transfusions.
"The Holy Father remains alert and spent the day in a chair, although in more pain than yesterday. For now, the prognosis is cautious," the Holy See Press Office stated.
The Risk of Serious Complications
The primary concern among medical professionals is the potential development of sepsis, a severe blood infection that could emerge as a complication of the Pope's pneumonia. As of the latest report, no signs of this complication have been detected, but experts have warned that the situation could change swiftly.
The Pope's personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, emphasized the fragility of his current state, noting, "Like all frail patients, I say he is always on the golden scale: in other words, it takes very little to destabilize him," as reported by European media outlets.
Hospitalized and Under Close Observation
Despite his precarious situation, Pope Francis is still showing signs of clarity. The Vatican previously reported that the Pontiff managed to sleep well the night before, but his overall condition has worsened over time. It is expected that he will remain hospitalized for at least another week as he undergoes intensive treatment for the lung infection.
Meanwhile, the Vatican's scheduled celebrations for the Holy Year are proceeding without the Pontiff's presence.
Pontiff's Medical History
Pope Francis has faced several health challenges in recent years. In June 2023, he underwent surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair an abdominal wall hernia. Earlier, in March of the same year, he spent three days in the same hospital receiving intravenous antibiotics for another respiratory infection. Since his youth, when part of his lung was removed, the Pope has experienced recurrent respiratory issues. Last year, during Holy Week, he was notably affected by a prolonged bout of bronchitis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Francis's Health
What is the current condition of Pope Francis?
Pope Francis is in critical condition following a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis and complications from a lung infection.
What are the primary medical concerns for Pope Francis?
Doctors are primarily concerned about the potential development of sepsis, a serious blood infection that could arise from his current pneumonia.
What medical procedures has Pope Francis undergone recently?
In June 2023, Pope Francis had surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia. Earlier that year, he was treated for a respiratory infection with intravenous antibiotics.