Pope resting in hospital - Vatican gives short update after blood tests revealed early kidney failure

Pope Francis is "resting" in hospital and the night "went well", The Vatican has said in its latest update.

It comes after The Vatican said on Sunday that the Pope was in a critical condition and was showing an "initial, mild" kidney problem - but was "vigilant" and took part in Mass in hospital with those caring for him.

Sunday evening's statement said he was "vigilant and well-oriented", but due to the complexity of his case the prognosis was "reserved".

The Pope, 88, has been at Rome's Gemelli Hospital since 14 February and is being treated for double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis.

He has a history of respiratory illness, having lost part of one of his lungs to pleurisy as a young man. He also had an acute case of pneumonia in 2023.

Monday marks Francis's 10th day at Gemelli - equalling the longest hospital stay of his papacy.

He spent the same number of days there in 2021 after he had 33cm (13ins) of his colon removed.

The Vatican also released a message from the Pope yesterday - his first from his hospital bed - in which he asked people to pray for him.

His message said: "I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!"

He added: "In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children."

"Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me."

The message is understood to have been written in the last few days.

On Saturday, the Vatican said the pontiff was in a critical condition after a "prolonged respiratory crisis" that required a high flow of oxygen.

It said he'd had blood transfusions after tests revealed thrombocytopenia, which is associated with anaemia.

Doctors said on Friday that he was "not out of danger" and was expected to remain in hospital for at least another week.

They warned the main threat he faces is sepsis - that can occur as a complication of pneumonia.

Sepsis is a complication of an infection that can lead to organ failure and death.

Millions around the world have been concerned about his increasingly frail health.

His condition has given rise to speculation over a possible resignation - which the Vatican has not commented on.