Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absence seizures are one of several kinds of seizures. These seizures are sometimes referred to as petit mal seizures (from the French for "little illness", a term dating from the late 18th century. Absence seizures are brief (usually less than 20 seconds), generalized epileptic seizures of sudden onset and termination. They have two essential components: clinically, the impairment of consciousness (absence) Electroencephalography (EEG) shows generalized spike-and-slow wave discharges. Absence seizures are broadly divided into typical and atypical types. Typical absence seizures usually occur in the context of idiopathic generalised epilepsies and EEG shows fast >2.5 Hz generalised spike-wave discharges. The prefix “typical” is to differentiate them from atypical absences rather than to characterise them as "classical" or characteristic of any particular syndrome. The clinical manifestations of absence seizures vary significantly among patients. Impairment of consciousness is the essential ictal element and may be the only clinical symptom, but this is often combined with other manifestations. The hallmark of the absence seizures is abrupt and sudden onset impairment of consciousness, interruption of ongoing activities, a blank stare, possibly a brief upward rotation of the eyes. If the patient is speaking, speech is slowed or interrupted, if walking, he or she stands transfixed; if eating, the food will stop on his way to the mouth. Usually, the patient will be unresponsive when addressed. In some cases, attacks are aborted when the patient is called.

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures

Absent Seizures