Pope Francis’ Condition Still Critical as Blood Test Shows Signs of Kidney Failure
Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he continues to battle double-lung pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment since February 14. Despite some signs of improvement, doctors caution that his condition remains serious, with blood tests revealing early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control.
According to the latest update from the Holy See Press Office on Sunday evening, “The condition of the Holy Father remains critical, but since yesterday evening, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises.”
Doctors have administered two units of concentrated red blood cells, which have helped stabilize his hemoglobin levels. “The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control,” the press office confirmed. High-flow oxygen therapy continues through nasal cannulas to assist his breathing.
Despite his fragile condition, Pope Francis, 88, remains alert and actively engaged. “The Holy Father remains alert and well-oriented,” the statement read. On Sunday morning, he participated in Holy Mass in his hospital apartment alongside his caregivers.
“The complexity of the clinical situation and the necessary time for the pharmacological treatments to show results require that the prognosis remain guarded,” the Vatican doctors cautioned.
Pope Francis, who has faced recurring health issues in recent years, has been head of the Catholic Church since his election in 2013. While his doctors remain hopeful about his recovery, they stress that he is not out of danger yet and will continue to receive intensive medical care in the coming days.
