EFLM LabX Report by Tuba Çakmak Ercan, Turkey

It was a great privilege to participate in the EFLM LabX exchange programme and to visit the Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic, between 17 and 30 November 2025.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Ivan Šebesta, MD, PhD, who supervised my visit and prepared a well-structured programme tailored to my professional interests. I am also grateful to Prof. Tomáš Zima, Head of the Institute, for welcoming me to the department and enabling this valuable educational opportunity. I would additionally like to thank Prof. Dr. Doğan Yücel, Head of the Turkish Biochemistry Society, for his continuous academic guidance and institutional support. I also sincerely acknowledge the EFLM LabX programme for providing an outstanding platform that promotes international collaboration and professional development in laboratory medicine.
I am currently working as a resident doctor in the Department of Medical Biochemistry at İzmir City Hospital, Turkey. My primary objectives for this exchange were to observe the organisation and workflow of a large academic laboratory abroad, to broaden my diagnostic perspective, and to gain experience in areas that are not routinely encountered in my current clinical practice.
During my two-week visit, I attended several diagnostic and academic activities covering both routine laboratory diagnostics and specialised fields. A major focus was placed on inborn errors of metabolism, with particular emphasis on purine metabolism disorders, their biochemical background, diagnostic approaches, and clinical relevance. These sessions significantly contributed to my understanding of metabolic diseases and their laboratory evaluation.
I also spent time in the gastroenterology laboratory, where I was introduced to diagnostic approaches for malabsorption syndromes and celiac disease, including the application and interpretation of breath tests. In addition, I had the opportunity to learn about national screening programmes in the Czech Republic, gaining insight into their structure, laboratory integration, and role in preventive medicine.
Throughout the programme, I observed laboratory practices and diagnostic strategies that differ from those routinely applied in Turkey. This exposure allowed me to gain new perspectives, practical insights, and experience in a different healthcare system, contributing positively to my professional development and future clinical practice.
Beyond the academic programme, my stay in Prague also offered valuable cultural experiences. I had the opportunity to explore the historical city centre, including walking across Charles Bridge, visiting Prague Castle, and discovering the Old Town. Experiencing the city’s historical atmosphere and traditional Czech cuisine further enriched my stay.
In conclusion, this LabX exchange was an academically and professionally rewarding experience. It broadened my diagnostic knowledge, enhanced my understanding of international laboratory practice, and strengthened my motivation for continuous professional development. I am very grateful for this opportunity and sincerely thank everyone who contributed to making this visit possible

It was a great privilege to participate in the EFLM LabX exchange programme and to visit the Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic, between 17 and 30 November 2025.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Ivan Šebesta, MD, PhD, who supervised my visit and prepared a well-structured programme tailored to my professional interests. I am also grateful to Prof. Tomáš Zima, Head of the Institute, for welcoming me to the department and enabling this valuable educational opportunity. I would additionally like to thank Prof. Dr. Doğan Yücel, Head of the Turkish Biochemistry Society, for his continuous academic guidance and institutional support. I also sincerely acknowledge the EFLM LabX programme for providing an outstanding platform that promotes international collaboration and professional development in laboratory medicine.