Investigating the Overlap of Hikikomori and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Report

Hikikomori is a form of social withdrawal lasting more than 6 months with significant associated functional impairment. To date, numerous studies confirm the presence of this condition not only in Japan, where it was first described, but also globally abroad. This is an underestimated clinical condition, and it is emerging especially in adolescents and young adults, representing an increasing management problem for families and society. Prevalence ranges from 1.1% to 6.7%. Hikikomori can be associated with other neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Indeed, ASD and hikikomori share numerous characteristics confirmed by functional neuroimaging studies that have highlighted in both conditions the presence of alterations in cerebral regions related to social functioning. We present a case report regarding the history of a 14-year-old girl with characteristics compatible with ASD and hikikomori. At present, there are no specific treatments approved for hikikomori in ASD patients. Further studies are necessary to understand the link between the two conditions, the boundary, and possible overlap.