Pope Francis remains in critical condition, with blood tests showing early kidney failure, but he remains alert, responsive and attended Mass, the Vatican said, as the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia and a lung infection, the Associated Press reported, quoted by BTA
The Vatican said Francis had not had any more respiratory crises since Saturday night, but he still needs supplemental oxygen.
Some blood tests show "initial, mild, kidney failure", but doctors said it was under control. They added that Francis' condition was variable, given his age, frailty and pre-existing lung disease. His condition has revived speculation about what might happen if he falls unconscious or otherwise becomes incapacitated, and whether he might resign.
A pre-written message prepared for reading by the pope yesterday said he was "continuing with confidence in his hospitalization." The message urged the faithful to pray for him, marking the upcoming anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine - "a painful and shameful occasion for all humanity."