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The clinical condition of Pope Francis, 88 years old, has worsened in recent hours after being diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, leading the Vatican to describe his state as "complex," in the latest statement.
It is further aggravated by the fact that Francisco had part of a lung removed when he was young, which means his respiratory capacity is reduced.
Despite the seriousness of the clinical picture—compounded by previous respiratory complications—the Supreme Pontiff remains in good spirits and continues with some work activities under medical supervision.
"The chest computed tomography that the Holy Father underwent this afternoon, prescribed by the Vatican medical team and the medical team of the A. Gemelli Polyclinic Foundation, revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia that requires additional pharmacological therapy," the Vatican stated.
Bilateral pneumonia, which affects both lungs, has worsened an already existing polymicrobial infection, developed in a context of bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, which required the use of antibiotic therapy with cortisone.
Such a situation "makes therapeutic treatment more complex," the statement added.
"Despite everything, Pope Francis is in good spirits," reiterated the Holy See.
Uncertain hospitalization time
The Vatican has not provided any indication of how long the pontiff will remain hospitalized.
"The treatment of such a complex clinical picture, which has already required two changes in its pharmacological regimen, will require an appropriate stay," the Vatican authorities stated.
As a preventive measure, all papal audiences have been canceled for the rest of the week.
The Pope was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome last Friday in a "fair" health condition, after his bronchitis, which had been affecting him for a week, worsened.
Since then, he/she has remained at the medical center under observation, with treatments that have had to be adjusted based on the progression of his/her condition.
Pulmonary inflammation and respiratory complications
Bilateral pneumonia involves a severe inflammation of the lungs caused by microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi. In severe cases, the lung alveoli become filled with pus and fluid, making it difficult for the patient to absorb oxygen and breathe.
"The most significant risk is related to the progressive and sometimes very rapid loss of lung capacity. In the most severe cases, when oxygen is insufficient, it is necessary to intubate the patient until they manage to overcome pneumonia," warn specialists in respiratory diseases cited by the Spanish press.
For now, the Pope has not required invasive respiratory assistance, but his progress is still being closely monitored by the doctors at the Gemelli Polyclinic.
Medical history of the Pontiff
Francisco has faced several health issues in recent years.
In June 2023, he underwent surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia in the abdominal wall.
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 one of his lungs was removed, the Pope has experienced recurring respiratory issues.
Last year, during Holy Week, he was affected by a prolonged bronchitis.
Francisco is engaged in some work activities
Despite the recommendation for complete rest, the Pope continues to carry out some work activities with the assistance of his personal secretaries, who bring him documents and reports.
They have also remained in contact with the Sagrada Familia parish in Gaza, with which they maintain daily communication since the beginning of the conflict in the region.
"Despite his hospitalization, Francisco returned this Monday night to speak with the parish of the Holy Family, the only Catholic church in Gaza," reported Argentine priest Gabriel Romanelli to Italian media.
During his hospitalization, the Pope has shared moments of prayer and reflection, in addition to receiving the Eucharist.
"This morning he received the Eucharist and, throughout the day, alternated between rest, prayer, and reading texts. He expresses gratitude for the closeness he feels at this moment and asks, with a thankful heart, that prayers continue to be said for him," concluded the Vatican statement.
Among the canceled activities is the retirement hearing scheduled for this Saturday, as well as the Jubilee Mass for Deacons on Sunday, which will be replaced by the head of the Dicastery for Evangelization, Rino Fisichella.
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