Can schizophrenia be caused by a virus?
The virus hypothesis of schizophrenia has been under consideration for more than 60 years. Its best evidence is that children born to mothers exposed to viruses during the second trimester of pregnancy, but not the first or third, have an increased risk for the development of schizophrenia. There is also the possibility that some viruses, such as the influenza or Borna virus, might mimic certain natural-occurring substances and, by doing so, cause some of the symptoms of illnesses like schizophrenia. This does not mean, however, that schizophrenia is caused by viruses. For example, it may be that the virus in the mother causes physiological stress, which in turn leads to development of the disease. Thus far, attempts to identify a specific virus contributing to the etiology of schizophrenia have failed, although this hypothesis continues to be actively explored.
The virus hypothesis of schizophrenia has been under consideration for more than 60 years. Its best evidence is that children born to mothers exposed to viruses during the second trimester of pregnancy, but not the first or third, have an increased risk for the development of schizophrenia. There is also the possibility that some viruses, such as the influenza or Borna virus, might mimic certain natural-occurring substances and, by doing so, cause some of the symptoms of illnesses like schizophrenia. This does not mean, however, that schizophrenia is caused by viruses. For example, it may be that the virus in the mother causes physiological stress, which in turn leads to development of the disease. Thus far, attempts to identify a specific virus contributing to the etiology of schizophrenia have failed, although this hypothesis continues to be actively explored. 17. What is the current policy regarding involuntary commitment? Policies regarding involuntary commitment are different in e
