[Mental development of the children of epileptic mothers].

In a group of 152 children of epileptic mothers mental deterioration was recognized in 8,5% of cases, that is four times more frequently than in the general population. Children showing evidence of mental retardation were more frequently products of pregnancy during which their mothers had epileptic seizures and were taking drugs. An evident correlation between the intelligence level of the mothers and their children and the efficiency of different psychic functions in both groups suggest a possible role of a genetic factor.