Pope Leo XIV’s Doctors Confirm No Further Treatment Is Necessary

Vatican City, October 22, 2026: Pope Leo XIV’s doctors have confirmed that the tumour removed during his surgery on 13 October was a lung adenocarcinoma, adding that the disease was localised and no further treatment is necessary.

Tests Confirm Localised Lung Cancer

The update was announced on Wednesday, 21 October, following the completion of final histopathology and molecular testing on the tissue removed during the operation.

In a statement released by the Holy See Press Office, Dr Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora confirmed the diagnosis and outlined the findings of the subsequent medical assessment.

“The final histopathology and molecular testing reports on the tissue removed during the Holy Father’s surgery were issued today,” the statement said.

“The results confirmed that the tumour was a lung adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localised. A subsequent oncological assessment has confirmed that no further treatment is necessary.”

Surgery Removed the Lower Lobe of the Right Lung

The Pope underwent surgery on 13 October to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The latest findings provide further information about the nature and extent of the tumour.

Lung adenocarcinoma is a type of lung cancer. According to the medical statement, the disease was localised, and the subsequent oncological assessment concluded that additional treatment was not required.

The announcement offers an important update on the Pope’s health following the operation and the medical investigations that followed it.

Focus Turns to the Pope’s Recovery

The latest announcement follows an earlier report concerning the Pope’s recovery and his planned international engagements. In a separate interview, his surgeon, Professor Stefano Margaritora, said there was no clinical reason to cancel the Pope’s planned visit to South America.

The confirmation that no further treatment is necessary provides reassurance about the medical assessment following surgery. However, the statement did not provide further details about the Pope’s recovery timetable or any additional follow-up arrangements.

The Holy See’s announcement marks a significant development in the public understanding of the Pope’s condition. With the tumour confirmed as localised and no further treatment deemed necessary, attention will now remain on his recovery and the continuation of his pastoral responsibilities.

Courtesy : Vatican News