Vatican City – Pope Francis’s condition remains critical after ten days in the hospital, the Vatican reported Sunday. While the 88-year-old pontiff did not experience another respiratory attack since Saturday night, doctors are closely monitoring new signs of renal failure. The Pope’s existing condition of thrombocytopenia remains stable.
The Vatican stated that Francis is receiving “high-flow oxygen” and remains alert. He received two units of red blood cells. Medical tests showed “initial, mild, renal failure,” which is currently under control. His thrombocytopenia, a condition marked by low platelet count, has not worsened.
“The clinical picture, and the need to wait for…pharmacological treatments…mean that the prognosis remains reserved,” the Vatican’s statement read.
Despite his condition, Pope Francis participated in Sunday mass from his suite at Gemelli hospital, alongside his caregivers.
The Pope was admitted on February 14 with bronchitis, which developed into double pneumonia. On Saturday, a prolonged respiratory attack increased global concern. Catholics worldwide continue to pray for his recovery. Doctors did not provide a definitive answer on a long-term prognosis, citing the ongoing medical treatments. The Pontiff’s case of thrombocytopenia is one factor among many that doctors are currently observing.
