Vatican officials announced Tuesday evening that Pope Francis has developed pneumonia affecting both lungs, further complicating his recovery. The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to the hospital on Friday following a week of worsening bronchitis. Doctors reported Monday that he had a combined respiratory tract infection.
The Vatican released a statement Wednesday morning indicating Pope Francis “enjoyed a restful night, awoke, and had breakfast,” and that he remains in good spirits. The following provides an overview of the pneumonia diagnosis and potential treatments.
Recent Developments
Pope Francis was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday in “fair” condition due to worsening bronchitis. Doctors subsequently identified a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, a mix of viruses, bacteria, and potentially other pathogens.
A chest scan conducted Tuesday revealed the pneumonia in both lungs, prompting additional medication.
Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes causing coughing and mucus, can sometimes lead to pneumonia, an infection causing lung inflammation.
Severity of the Condition
Pneumonia can be serious for anyone, but poses a greater risk to older individuals like the Pope.
Dr. Meredith McCormack, director of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Johns Hopkins University, highlights advanced age (over 65) as a risk factor for severe infections.
While the Pope’s past lung surgery (removal of part of his right lung) doesn’t necessarily hinder recovery, Dr. McCormack expresses more concern about potential signs of weakness. She notes that the Pope’s reliance on a wheelchair for over two years may indicate frailty, a factor that increases the risk of complications.
However, Vatican officials report that the Pope is mobile, able to get out of bed, and has good heart function.
Treatment Options
Treatment options include antibiotic therapy, supplemental oxygen, and therapies to support lung and overall body recovery.
Dr. Andrew Chadwick, a respiratory and intensive care specialist at Oxford University Hospital, suggests that steroids and antibiotics, along with nursing care and chest physiotherapy, will be central to the Pope’s treatment. Physiotherapy aids in clearing lung fluids, especially for less mobile patients.
Dr. McCormack notes that severe pneumonia cases typically require one to two weeks of treatment, but recovery may extend longer in older individuals.
Near-Term Outlook
Doctors are primarily focused on preventing further deterioration.
Dr. McCormack explains that treatment involves administering antibiotics and other therapies while monitoring the body’s response. A lack of worsening is a positive sign.
Dr. Maor Sauler, specializing in adult pulmonary and critical care at Yale University, points out that while antibiotics are effective, lung function is crucial for recovery, and this ability declines with age. He emphasizes that while pneumonia is often treatable, it remains a leading cause of death.
—Nicole Winfield in Rome contributed to this report.