Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi Hospitalized and Diagnosed with Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia

ROME (AP) — Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is being treated for a lung infection and a chronic blood condition, his doctors said Thursday. The condition, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, has been present for some time, according to a medical bulletin signed off on by Berlusconi’s personal physician, Alberto Zangrillo.

Berlusconi is currently in intensive care at a hospital in Rome. A statement released by the hospital said he is being treated for a lung infection, and that the treatment strategy envisions treatment of the pulmonary infection as well as specialized treatment aimed at limiting the negative effects of the chronic blood condition.

Berlusconi, 81, served as Italy’s prime minister three times between 1994 and 2011. He is known for his controversial tenure, which included a series of legal battles and convictions.

Berlusconi’s diagnosis of leukemia comes as Italy continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic. The country has seen more than 35,000 deaths from the virus, and the government has implemented a series of restrictions to try to contain the spread.

Berlusconi’s doctors said that the former prime minister is in good spirits and that his condition is stable. They added that he is being monitored closely and that his treatment is ongoing.

Berlusconi’s diagnosis of leukemia is a reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment of chronic conditions. While the prognosis for Berlusconi is not yet known, his doctors said that they are hopeful that he will make a full recovery.