M.D. Aysun Soylu

A 19-year-old competitive freediver presented with recurrent episodes of severe vertigo and tinnitus after deep dives. Initial ENT workup was normal. Dr. Soylu received a biopsy of his temporal bone after a minor procedure for persistent ear fullness. Her meticulous analysis revealed microscopic, early-stage otosclerosis, a condition exceptionally rare in someone so young and active. Her diagnosis shifted treatment from vestibular suppressants to a targeted surgical consultation, potentially preserving his athletic career.

A 58-year-old retired shipyard welder from a low-income neighborhood presented with a non-healing ulcer on his lower leg, initially treated as a venous stasis ulcer for months. When a small biopsy finally reached Dr. Soylu, she identified rare, atypical mycobacterial organisms deep in the tissue, likely acquired decades prior from contaminated metal or seawater. Her specific pathogen identification allowed for a tailored, long-term antibiotic regimen, leading to gradual healing where standard care had failed.

A 7-year-old girl was admitted for persistent fever and abdominal pain. An appendectomy was performed, but the appendix appeared grossly normal. Dr. Soylu's histopathological examination revealed not appendicitis, but early-stage, localized Crohn's disease manifesting solely in the appendix—an extraordinarily unusual presentation. This early, incidental diagnosis allowed for immediate pediatric gastroenterology intervention and dietary planning, averting years of undiagnosed symptoms.

A 42-year-old vegan social media influencer underwent a routine breast reduction. The surgical specimen was sent for pathology. Dr. Soylu discovered multifocal, low-grade ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) entirely incidental to the cosmetic procedure. There was no family history or palpable lump. Her finding triggered a full oncology workup and preventive treatment, turning an elective surgery into a potentially life-saving intervention.