Refractory Homicidal Ideation in a Young Adult Male With High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia

TL;DR

This case report explores persistent homicidal thoughts in a young man with autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia, highlighting treatment challenges.

Contribution

The paper presents a rare case of refractory homicidal ideation in a patient with comorbid ASD and schizophrenia.

Findings

The patient exhibited persistent homicidal ideation despite treatment.

Comorbid conditions complicated the management of his psychiatric symptoms.

The case highlights the need for tailored approaches in treating complex psychiatric comorbidities.

Abstract

Persistent homicidal ideation (HI), while not common among psychiatric disorders, can occur within multiple diagnoses in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. There is a growing global and national concern for homicide and homicide-related deaths. In this case report, we discuss refractory homicidal ideation in an 18-year-old male with the diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia and a history of Tourette’s syndrome and highlight the interplay of comorbidities and challenges in effective management and treatment.