Pope Francis remains in a “critical” condition, the Vatican has said, with blood tests revealing early signs of kidney failure, though the issue is “currently under control.”
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Vatican said the 88-year-old pontiff had not experienced further respiratory crises since Saturday evening. However, some blood tests indicated “an initial, mild renal failure,” which is being monitored. The Pope is described as “vigilant and well oriented.”
Francis, who continues to receive oxygen, participated in Holy Mass from his hospital apartment on the 10th floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday morning. The Vatican emphasized that the “complexity of the clinical picture” and the need to assess the impact of ongoing pharmacological treatments mean the prognosis remains “reserved.”
Earlier on Sunday, the Vatican reported that Pope Francis had required high-flow oxygen following a respiratory crisis but had a peaceful night in hospital. He will remain under medical care after being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. For only the third time in his nearly 12-year papacy, the Pope did not deliver the weekly Angelus prayer.
In a pre-released text of his Sunday sermon, Francis expressed gratitude to medical staff for their dedication and confirmed that his treatment is ongoing.
Earlier in the week, the Pope’s condition had appeared to improve, with the Vatican stating on Thursday that he was responding “positively” to treatment for pneumonia.
Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on 14 February for tests related to a respiratory infection. A subsequent CT scan revealed pneumonia in both lungs.
The Pope has a history of respiratory issues, stemming from a severe bout of pneumonia in his youth that led to the removal of part of one lung.
In 2021, he underwent surgery to remove part of his colon due to diverticulitis, a condition that can cause inflammation or infection. He was also hospitalized for bronchitis in 2023 and has suffered two recent falls, resulting in injuries to his chin and arm.
The Vatican has urged the public to continue praying for the Pope’s recovery as he remains under close medical supervision.