Pope Francis suffers two episodes of ‘acute respiratory failure’, says Vatican

Pope Francis had "two episodes of acute respiratory failure," the Vatican announced Monday, the latest in a string of medical problems for the 88-year-old pope since his initial hospitalization last month.

“Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm.

"Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions.

"In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed.  The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times.

"The prognosis remains guarded."

The Pope's blood test results remain unaltered, indicating that he does not have leukocytosis (an elevated white blood cell count). This implies that there is no new infection and that the collection of mucus is just a result of the Pope's pre-existing pneumonia.

The two attacks today were caused by the bronchial response, which sought to release the accumulated mucus in order to eradicate the germs. The Pope's health condition is difficult, and more crises like those that occurred this afternoon are likely.