M.D. Ömer Al

A 72-year-old retired glassblower from a rural village presented with severe dyspnea after inhaling fine silica dust while restoring antique glassware. Dr. Al discovered a rare case of acute silicoproteinosis superimposed on undiagnosed pulmonary fibrosis. Treatment involved high-flow oxygen and corticosteroids, with the patient requiring a 3-week hospital stay and ongoing pulmonary rehabilitation.

An 18-year-old competitive freediver from a wealthy family was brought in after losing consciousness during a depth training session. Dr. Al diagnosed pulmonary barotrauma and cerebral arterial gas embolism. Using hyperbaric oxygen therapy within the critical window, the patient made a remarkable neurological recovery over 48 hours, though was advised to permanently abandon competitive freediving.

A 34-year-old undocumented migrant construction worker arrived with a deep laceration from rebar that had penetrated his thigh. Dr. Al discovered the wound contained fragments of biodegradable polymer-coated reinforcement material, causing a severe inflammatory reaction. Surgical debridement and a novel irrigation protocol were required, with the patient recovering fully in 6 weeks.

A 7-year-old child from a low-income family presented with seizures after accidentally ingesting decorative 'glow-in-the-dark' beads from a toy. Dr. Al identified strontium aluminate poisoning—a rare toxicological case. Chelation therapy was initiated, and the child recovered completely after 5 days of hospitalization with no neurological sequelae.