Seventy-two-year-old expected to make full recovery but will miss several performances, his US representative says

The opera singer Placido Domingo is in hospital after suffering a blockage in an artery of the lungs. The 72-year-old is expected to make a full recovery but will miss several performances this month, his US representative has said.

The opera star was admitted to hospital in Madrid on Monday. Doctors said his pulmonary embolism was caused by a blood clot.

"He's doing very well and responding very well to treatment," said the representative, Nancy Seltzer.

She added that doctors had asked the Spanish tenor and conductor to rest for three to four weeks. His return to the stage would depend on how quickly he could regain his strength.

It is not the first time Domingo has encountered a serious medical condition. He returned to the stage just 45 days after having colon cancer surgery in 2010. The tenor has, however, maintained a vigorous schedule.

Domingo, one of the Three Tenors, is the most visible opera singer in the world and has performed more than 140 roles, expanding his repertoire to include baritone roles in the past five years.

He was also recently named as the new goodwill ambassador for the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation for his efforts in encouraging the take-up of classical music around the world.

Five of his performances in Daniel Catán's opera Il Postino, which were to begin on 17 July at the Teatro Real, in Madrid, have now been cancelled.

Domingo's stay in hospital will also prevent him from conducting an orchestral performance at Madrid's Plaza Major, which is planned for 21 July. If all goes well with his recovery he is expected to appear at the Salzburg festival, during August, and at the Verona opera house later that same month.