LONDON -- Vatican authorities said Monday that Pope Francis has a complex infection in his respiratory system and will require more targeted drug treatment. Officials said the 88-year-old pope is suffering from a "polymicrobial respiratory tract infection," but gave no further details on the severity of his illness or what would change in his treatment.
Here's a look at the Pope's latest diagnosis and what his treatment could involve.
What is a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection?
Essentially, it means there's a mix of bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites growing in someone's lungs.
"Often times, people will get a bronchitis or an airway infection and that can often start a cascade of multiple problems, including infections in the lungs," said Dr. Maor Sauler, who specializes in adult pulmonary and critical care medicine at Yale University's School of Medicine. He said such issues were common in older people whose immune systems might be weaker or had complex health issues.