Pope Francis continues to be closely monitored by doctors at Rome‘s Gemelli Hospital following his recent health problems, such as a case of double pneumonia that was diagnosed shortly after he entered the hospital in February. New tests have revealed that after a severe asthmatic respiratory episode on Saturday, which required high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions, a condition related to anemia was discovered.
Pope Francis: Latest Health Updates
Matteo Bruni from the Vatican issued a short statement Sunday, stating that Pope Francis enjoyed a restful night. The BBC reported that, although no additional information was provided this time about the Holy Father’s breakfast or mobility habits, he remained alert throughout the day and spent it in an armchair. He appeared to be more tired than he had been the day before.
Understanding Pope’s Disease: Anemia and Thrombocytopenia
Blood transfusions are administered when platelet counts drop. This is a sign of thrombocytopenia. The blood contains platelets, which are vital components that help form clots as well as aid wound healing. The U.S. National Institutes of Health cites that low platelet count can result from a number of causes, such as medication side-effects or infections.
Pope Francis’s Health History
Pope Francis is 88 years old and has been hospitalized for bronchitis before. He also had surgery to remove a part of his lung decades ago.
Doctors Luigi Carbone (Vice Director of Vatican Health Care) and Sergio Alfieri (Head of Medical Team Overseeing Pope Francis’ Care), announced on Friday afternoon that Pope Francis would be hospitalized at least for the rest of this week. The doctors added that, while the Holy father was not in “immediate danger of death”, he still wasn’t “out of risk”.
Sepsis and its Potential Concerns
Pope Francis will be closely watched by doctors for signs of sepsis. This is a blood infection which can develop as an complication to pneumonia.
Vatican Statements
Vatican News published the following statement by the Vatican Press Office on Saturday evening: “The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critically critical.” As I explained yesterday the pope’s condition is critical. Pope Francis was forced to use high-flows of oxygen this morning after a respiratory attack similar to asthma. The blood tests conducted today revealed anemia and thrombocytopenia. Blood transfusions were required. Holy Father is alert, but he spent most of the day sitting in an armchair. He seems more tired than yesterday. The prognosis is guarded at the moment.”
Look Ahead to Continuous Monitoring of Vatican Operations
Pope Francis’s health will be constantly monitored during the next few days. While Pope Francis is in hospital, top Vatican officials are responsible for managing key decisions and duties.