Patient Experience
A 28-year-old competitive freediver from the Aegean coast presented with recurrent episodes of confusion and headache after deep dives. Dr. Gezer identified an unusual pattern of delayed-onset cerebral oxygen toxicity, not previously documented in recreational freediving. He collaborated with hyperbaric specialists to develop a personalized dive profile and a pre-dive hydration protocol, allowing the patient to continue her sport safely with monitoring.
A 72-year-old retired olive oil producer presented with progressive weakness and bronze skin pigmentation. While initial tests suggested adrenal insufficiency, Dr. Gezer noted the patient's lifelong exposure to copper-based fungicides in his groves. Further investigation revealed Wilson's disease with atypical late-onset presentation, successfully managed with chelation therapy and dietary changes.
A 19-year-old international exchange student from Kazakhstan developed recurrent fevers and joint pain. Multiple providers had attributed it to stress or viral syndromes. Dr. Gezer discovered the student had been consuming unpasteurized camel milk from a local market, leading to a diagnosis of brucellosis—rare in urban Izmir—which responded completely to targeted antibiotics.
A 45-year-old shipyard welder presented with fatigue and abdominal pain. Standard panels were normal, but Dr. Gezer pursued a detailed occupational history revealing recent work on older vessels with lead-based paints. Blood tests confirmed significant lead poisoning; treatment included chelation and workplace advocacy for safer practices.