The Vatican has released a 10-word update on Pope Francis' health on the 10th day of the pontiff being in hospital as he battles a lung infection complicated by the early stages of kidney failure.

       In a statement on Monday, it said: “The night passed well, the pope slept and is resting".

       An update released yesterday said the Pontiff, 88, remained in a "critical" condition but "has not presented any further respiratory crises".

       He was continuing to receive high-flow oxygen therapy and underwent blood transfusions. Blood tests also revealed "initial, mild renal insufficiency" and a kidney issue that is "currently under control."

       The head of the Catholic church was said to be "alert and well oriented," with his thrombocytopenia, a condition linked to low blood platelet levels, remaining stable.

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       Though his condition remains critical, he hasn't experienced any respiratory crises since Saturday.

       Nevertheless, Pope Francis "participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who are taking care of him during these days," the Vatican said.

       The religious leader, who has suffered various health problems in recent months, was initially admitted to Policlinico A. Gemelli Hospital in Rome after experiencing breathing difficulties for a number of days.

       He remains in the medical facility as of Monday.

       The Pope had initially been treated for bronchitis, but doctors later diagnosed him with pneumonia in both lungs.

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       The Argentine-born Jesuit had part of a lung removed in his youth due to pleurisy, which makes him particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections.

       He was previously treated for bronchitis at the same hospital in March 2023. Francis is the first Latin American and first Jesuit to be the leader of the church.

       Francis' hospitalisation sparked an outpouring of tributes and support from Catholics, with candles and loving messages left outside the unit where he is being treated.

       In a message to his followers on Sunday, Francis asked followers of the faith around the world to pray for him.

       "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 said.

       He also thanked those looking after him at the hospital and well-wishers.

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

       "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."