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Autism in Saudi Arabia: presentation, clinical correlates and comorbidity

Saleh M Al-Salehi1, Elham H Al-Hifthy, Mohammad Ghaziuddin

  • 1King Fahd Medical City Hospital, Riyadh, Suadi, Arabia.

Transcultural Psychiatry
|June 23, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study details the clinical features of 49 children diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder in Saudi Arabia. Findings highlight differences in referral age between genders and associated medical conditions in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Global Health

Background:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a global health concern, yet its characteristics in developing nations like Saudi Arabia remain under-researched.
  • Understanding ASD presentation in diverse cultural and socioeconomic contexts is crucial for accurate diagnosis and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the reasons for referral and clinical profiles of children diagnosed with ASD at a tertiary center in Saudi Arabia.
  • To identify demographic and clinical characteristics of pediatric ASD cases within the Saudi population.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnosis of ASD was based on DSM-IV criteria.
  • Data collection involved parent and child interviews, standardized rating scales, and review of medical and educational records.
  • A sample of 49 children (37 males, 12 females) was analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Females with ASD were significantly older at the time of referral compared to males.
  • Co-occurring conditions included seizure disorders (11 patients) and a chromosome abnormality (1 patient).
  • Psychotropic medication use was noted in 25 patients, and 14 children were products of consanguineous marriages.

Conclusions:

  • The findings provide essential data on ASD presentation in Saudi Arabia, highlighting specific demographic and clinical patterns.
  • These insights are vital for tailoring diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies for ASD in the region.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the implications of consanguinity and other factors on ASD in this population.

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