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

**Authors:** Natasha R Patel, Numa Rehmani, Rachel Utter, Barbara Gracious

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.65436 · 2024-07-26

## 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.

## Key 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.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** autism spectrum disorder (MONDO:0005258), schizophrenia (MONDO:0005090), Tourette’s syndrome (MONDO:0007661)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Mental Disorders (MESH:D001523), ASD (MESH:D000067877), Tourette's syndrome (MESH:D005879), Schizophrenia (MESH:D012559), deaths (MESH:D003643), HI (MESH:D001072)

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11345032