(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Dame Elizabeth Taylor has been hospitalised for congestive heart failure.

The legendary actress was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre two days ago, but the issue was only reported recently. The 78-year-old has suffered on-going heart problems, receiving an official diagnosis in 2004.

"Elizabeth Taylor was hospitalised earlier this week ... suffering from symptoms caused by congestive heart failure, an on-going condition. This issue is being addressed. She is currently being kept in the hospital for monitoring," confirmed spokeswoman Sam Morrison.

She continued, "Her family and close friends are appreciative of the warm support and interest of her loyal fans but have asked that people respect her privacy and allow her medical team the time and space to focus on restoring her back to health."

Elizabeth had been scheduled to attend a benefit gala on Wednesday evening in New York to celebrate her work with a long standing Aids charity, but was unable to be present. Elton John accepted the award on her behalf.

The star has suffered bad health in recent years which has forced her to use a wheelchair in public. (C) Cover Media