The Offspring of Schizophrenics: Fetal and Neonatal Deaths

This is the first report in a projected series on neurological development among the offspring of schizophrenics. An increased incidence of fetal and neonatal deaths is noted among offspring of schizophrenics when compared to a closely matched control group, using data collected prospectively. In many cases, no apparent reason for death was determined; in some cases, major neurological malformations were found. It is necessary to consider three possible explanations for these findings—genotype of the child, adverse intrauterine environment, and medication toxicity.