Prof. M.D. Hacer Kuzu Okur

A 28-year-old professional freediver from Antalya presented with recurrent episodes of shallow water blackout and persistent chest tightness after deep dives. Dr. Okur diagnosed exercise-induced pulmonary edema exacerbated by rapid ascent patterns. Treatment involved a tailored breath-hold training regimen, pre-dive bronchodilators, and collaboration with a hyperbaric medicine specialist. The patient returned to competitive diving within four months with modified techniques.

A 72-year-old retired carpet weaver from Konya, with 50 years of occupational wool dust exposure, developed progressive dyspnea initially misdiagnosed as COPD. Dr. Okur identified rare hypersensitivity pneumonitis through meticulous history-taking and specific antibody testing. Treatment combined corticosteroid therapy with complete environmental control—the patient's family converted his workshop into a dust-free hobby space. Significant functional improvement occurred over nine months.

A 19-year-old university exchange student from Mongolia presented with acute respiratory failure during Istanbul's high-pollution season. Dr. Okur discovered previously undiagnosed alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency triggered by environmental factors. Treatment involved augmentation therapy imported through special medical channels, with the Mongolian embassy assisting with logistics. The student stabilized and continued studies with ongoing monitoring.

A 41-year-old single mother working three cleaning jobs developed persistent cough with pink-tinged sputum. Initial clinics dismissed it as chronic bronchitis. Dr. Okur diagnosed pulmonary veno-occlusive disease through right heart catheterization and genetic testing. Treatment included targeted pulmonary vasodilators and social work coordination for childcare during hospitalizations. The patient showed modest improvement but required permanent disability support.