Michael J. Petris is a Medical Geneticist based in Burwood, in Melbourne’s east. He works from 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125. The work here is mostly about helping people understand how genes can affect health, and what that can mean for families over time.
As a medical geneticist, Michael looks after patients who may have inherited conditions. This can include rare genetic disorders, where symptoms can start in childhood or later in life. In many cases, families want clear answers about why something is happening, and what options they might have next.
Some of the conditions Michael may help with include Menkes Disease and other inherited copper-related conditions like Familial Benign Copper Deficiency and Wilson Disease. These conditions can affect different parts of the body, so the plan often needs to make sense of both test results and real-life symptoms.
He also supports people where genetic and medical causes may be part of the bigger picture. For example, this may include neuro conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease), and related concerns. At times, genetics can help explain risk, support earlier checking, and guide how care is organised with other health professionals.
Alongside genetic conditions, Michael also deals with ongoing health problems that can affect glands and joints. This can include dry eye and dry mouth, Sjogren Syndrome, and issues like dacryoadenitis and sialadenitis. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) may also be part of the care pathway, especially when symptoms need careful review alongside test results.
Over time, many people come in after lots of questions and appointments. Genetic testing and specialist advice can bring things into focus. It’s also about family planning and understanding what could be passed on, or what might be less likely, based on the information available.
If you’re seeking help, it can be useful to bring any prior reports you have, including pathology or imaging results. Michael can then work through the details with you, in a calm and practical way, and help you make sense of next steps.