Sudden death.
The literature regarding the association of psychosis and/or neuroleptic medication with sudden, unexpected, "autopsy negative" death is surveyed. Richardson's work is reviewed; in particular his conclusion that acid mucopolysaccharide deposition in the cardiovascular systems of his patients was of etiologic significance in their deaths. A case report follows which supports the association of psychosis and neuroleptic intake with abnormal mucopolysaccharide deposition and sudden death.
D000293:Adolescent; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002746:Chlorpromazine / Q000009:adverse effects; D003645:Death, Sudden / Q000473:pathology*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006025:Glycosaminoglycans / Q000378:metabolism; D006220:Haloperidol / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009206:Myocardium / Q000473:pathology; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D006025:Glycosaminoglycans; D006220:Haloperidol; D002746:Chlorpromazine