Late Identification of Autistic Disorder in Nigeria: An Illustration with 2 Case Reports

Abstract

Background : Autistic disorder is a severe neuro-developmental disorder. In recent years, there has been an increased concern about the upsurge in the prevalence of autism. Psychiatrists and other clinicians have a pivotal role in its identification. Methods : This is a report of 2 cases of autistic disorder seen at a child and adolescent psychiatric clinic in Nigeria. Results : The first case was a boy (17 years) and the second was a girl (14 years). Both cases had severe impairments in social relationships, communication, and behaviour; masked by non-specific autistic symptoms. They were diagnosed late. Conclusion : The importance of early identification was illustrated. Factors implicated in late identification include non specific pattern of presentation, poor level of autism awareness, late referral to specialist centres and inadequate child psychiatric facilities in Nigeria. These should be reviewed and given urgent attention.