Prof. MD. Anil Tombak

A 72-year-old retired copper mine foreman from the Taurus Mountains presented with severe pancytopenia and blue-green skin discoloration. Dr. Tombak diagnosed chronic copper poisoning mimicking myelodysplastic syndrome, traced to decades of drinking water from mine-adjacent springs. Treatment involved chelation therapy with D-penicillamine and environmental intervention. Full hematologic recovery took eighteen months, with his grandchildren now monitoring his water source.

A 19-year-old university student and amateur calligrapher developed progressive finger necrosis and microvascular thrombosis. Dr. Tombak diagnosed catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome triggered by a novel acrylic ink solvent. Treatment combined plasma exchange, rituximab, and collaboration with a chemical engineer to reformulate the ink. The patient regained full hand function and now produces solvent-free artwork for medical awareness campaigns.

A 45-year-old Syrian refugee and former mosaic artist presented with refractory megaloblastic anemia unresponsive to standard B12/folate therapy. Dr. Tombak discovered a genetic defect in the transcobalamin II receptor combined with chronic Helicobacter pylori infection impairing intrinsic factor. Treatment involved intramuscular hydroxocobalamin, antibiotic therapy, and nutritional counseling using locally available foods. Her anemia resolved, and she now teaches art therapy at the refugee center.

An 8-year-old boy from a rural citrus-farming family presented with recurrent severe hemolytic crises coinciding with harvest seasons. Dr. Tombak diagnosed glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency triggered by exposure to naphthalene-based pesticide storage bags. Intervention involved replacing storage materials and educating the community. The child has been crisis-free for two years and helps distribute safer storage alternatives.

A 28-year-old female competitive freediver from Antalya presented with unexplained episodes of syncope during deep dives. Initial workup elsewhere suggested cardiac issues, but Dr. Tombak identified a rare form of hemoglobinopathy (Hb Köln) that altered oxygen binding under extreme pressure. Treatment involved tailored hydration protocols and iron chelation therapy, allowing her to return to competitive diving with monitored depth limits within six months.