Pope Francis continues to improve, but ‘mild renal failure’ returns: Vatican

Pope Francis, 88, has shown slight improvement in his condition over the past 24 hours but remains in critical condition, according to a statement released by the Vatican on Wednesday. The pontiff has been hospitalized in Rome for nearly two weeks, with the details of his prognosis undisclosed. Despite this, he returned to work earlier this week and has been able to carry out some of his duties.

The Vatican statement mentioned, “The clinical conditions of the Holy Father in the last 24 hours have shown a further, slight improvement. The mild renal failure found in recent days has returned. The chest CT scan, performed last night, showed a normal evolution of the pulmonary phlogistic picture. Today’s blood chemistry and blood tests confirmed yesterday’s improvement.” It also stated that Pope Francis continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and has not experienced any respiratory crises. Respiratory physiotherapy is ongoing, and he received the Eucharist in the morning.

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on Feb. 14 after his bronchitis worsened, leading to a complex respiratory tract infection. Subsequently, he was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. Despite having part of one lung removed when he was younger, his current treatment includes high flows of supplemental oxygen and two blood transfusions to increase hemoglobin levels. The doctors have described his prognosis as guarded.

The main concern for Pope Francis is the risk of sepsis, a serious blood infection that can arise as a complication of pneumonia, given his age, fragility, and pre-existing lung condition. Doctors have been closely monitoring his condition to prevent any further complications.

As Tuesday marks the 11th day of his hospitalization, exceeding the longest hospital stay of his papacy in 2021, Cardinal Timothy Dolan in New York acknowledged the unity of the Catholic faithful at the bedside of a “dying father,” hinting at the seriousness of Pope Francis’s condition.

The faithful around the world continue to pray for Pope Francis’s recovery as he battles his health challenges. The Vatican has not disclosed any further details regarding his prognosis. Let us keep Pope Francis in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.

Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events. For tips, you can reach out to Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or connect with him on Twitter at @Hagstrom_Anders.