Spec. MD. Akif Arslan

A 72-year-old retired glassblower from Antalya's historic district developed refractory angina despite maximal medical therapy. Dr. Arslan identified coronary microvascular dysfunction through invasive coronary reactivity testing. He initiated a novel regimen combining ranolazine with tailored Mediterranean diet modifications. The patient now leads glassblowing workshops for cardiac rehabilitation patients, using controlled breathing techniques as therapeutic exercise.

A 41-year-old deep-sea saturation diver working on Mediterranean gas pipelines presented with unexplained bradycardia and fatigue. Dr. Arslan diagnosed dysautonomia triggered by prolonged hyperbaric exposure. He collaborated with hyperbaric medicine specialists to develop a phased decompression protocol and implanted a rate-responsive pacemaker. The patient transitioned to dive supervision and now advocates for cardiac monitoring in commercial diving.

A 19-year-old competitive freediver training for depth records developed recurrent pulmonary edema after deep dives. Dr. Arslan performed cardiopulmonary exercise testing with simulated depth pressures, identifying previously undetected pulmonary venous hypertension. He prescribed pre-dive sildenafil and developed a depth progression algorithm. The athlete now competes with monitored depth limits and coaches on cardiovascular safety in apnea sports.

A 58-year-old greenhouse owner from Kumluca developed heart failure symptoms that worsened during pollination seasons. Dr. Arslan discovered allergic myocarditis triggered by specific agricultural fungicides. After confirming with endomyocardial biopsy, he implemented a treatment protocol combining cardiac medications with environmental controls and immunotherapy. The patient redesigned greenhouse ventilation systems and now consults on agricultural cardiac health.

A 28-year-old nomadic goat herder from the Taurus Mountains presented with syncope during high-altitude treks. Dr. Arslan discovered an undiagnosed patent foramen ovale exacerbated by altitude changes. Using transesophageal echocardiography guidance, he performed a percutaneous closure device implantation. The patient returned to herding with modified ascent protocols and now serves as a community health liaison for remote villages.