Schizophrenia spectrum disorders in a Nigerian family: 4 case reports

Abstract

IntroductionThe risk of developing schizophrenia is higher among persons with an affected sibling compared to the general population. Beliefs about aetiology influence presentation, management and treatment outcomes. There are no reports on multiple occurrences of this disorder in a family in this part of the world. In this case series we also highlight how cultural beliefs hamper and shape management.Case presentationWe report a case series of schizophrenia spectrum disorders affecting four women in a Nigerian family of Ibo tribal origin who responded marginally to pharmacological interventions and required insight oriented psychotherapy and family therapy in resolving psychosocial problems.ConclusionWhile western taught disease models might explain these presentations, it is not usually accepted by lay persons from developing cultures. Limitations in contemporary treatment approaches necessitate the development of culturally relevant psychotherapeutic interventions.

Did psychopathology in Indian psychiatric patients change following the COVID-19 pandemic?

“…Patients of schizophrenia may present with delusions of persecution and reference where they grow suspicious of people talking about them or fearful of others who may be planning to kill or poison them. [ 6 ] Black magic and possession by god or other religious healers are the common basis of delusions[ 7 ] or believed to be the reason of the illness. [ 8 ] As devices, like the radio, television, computer, CCTV cameras, and the Internet were invented, they gave a new direction to the persecutory delusions such as conspiracy theories of enemies or authorities tracking and spying on people by spy camera.…”

Lunatics on the streets of Benin City, Nigeria ….………a social burden.

“…It may not be the primary cause of chronic mental illness but rather it can aid worsening the situation. Hereditary as a claimed cause has been suggested to be gene implicated [10][11][12][13][14][15]. Other features observed were stray movement, habitation of shades and hideouts, battered leg sores, irritability and nakedness.…”

“…It is a general perception in the area that women are characteristically involved in odd practices therefore they represent higher incidences. The usefulness of all these etiologies as shown in table 1 has been suggested to influence presentation, management and treatment outcomes [10].…”

“…They are commonly called "mad persons" on the streets. Few studies of psychiatry illness has only included lunatics in the scope [9,10]. Despite these few studies, their methodologies have been faulted [3].…”

“…Despite these few studies, their methodologies have been faulted [3]. Some of the etiologies have been thought to be genetically linked [10][11][12][13][14][15][16]. Other causes has also been suggested be multi-factorial [9,[17][18][19].…”