Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 12/16/2008

Question
Hi,

Me and my girlfriend are planning on getting married soon. Her brother is either bipolar or schizophrenic. Out of 9 brothers and sisters 2 were diagnosed. We(My family) are not diagnosed with any disorder or mental problems.
I have 4 questions:

1-What are the chances that my kids will be diagnosed?
2-Is there a blood test to check the genetic percentage?
3-My girlfriend is 23.She's normal and no symptoms of anything is there still a chance that she might be diagnosed?
4-Does it help that my family do not have any bipolar/schizophrenia history, i mean could my kids be free of risk.

Thanks and Remain
dian

Answer
Hi Dian:

1.  With both you and your girlfriend having no diagnosis, any children would have only one percent chance of being diagnosed-the same as the general population.

2. No, unfortunately, there are no blood tests at this point.

3.  If there is any extreme stress, there is a slight possibility your girlfriend may get diagnosed, but it is very unlikely at this point if she has never shown any symptoms.

4.  Yes, it is extremely possible your children will be free of any disorder.

                   Joyce A. Anthony