Prof. M.D. Sinan Yavuz

A 72-year-old retired olive grove owner from rural Kozan presented with unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Dr. Yavuz discovered a rare case of Whipple's disease through duodenal biopsy after extensive negative workups elsewhere. The patient, who had never traveled abroad, contracted it locally—an exceptionally rare occurrence in Turkey. Treatment with long-term antibiotics led to full recovery over 18 months, allowing him to return to tending his groves.

A 19-year-old university student and competitive swimmer arrived with sudden-onset muscle weakness. Dr. Yavuz diagnosed hypokalemic periodic paralysis triggered by intense training and carbohydrate loading—a condition typically seen in Asian populations but rare in Turkey. Genetic testing confirmed a novel mutation. With potassium supplementation and dietary modification, she returned to competition within three months under careful monitoring.

A 34-year-old Syrian refugee seamstress presented with persistent fever and joint pain. Other clinics had dismissed it as stress-related. Dr. Yavuz identified familial Mediterranean fever exacerbated by trauma and displacement. He coordinated care with a social worker to ensure medication access despite her uncertain residency status, achieving symptom control and allowing her to establish a small tailoring workshop.

A 58-year-old truck driver who traversed the Adana-Mersin route developed mysterious episodes of confusion. Dr. Yavuz diagnosed carbon monoxide poisoning from his truck's faulty exhaust system—missed because symptoms only appeared during long hauls. The patient resisted treatment, fearing job loss, until Dr. Yavuz contacted the transportation company directly to arrange repairs while protecting the driver's employment.