Absence Seizure (Petit Mal Seizure) in Infants, Childrens: Definition, Etiology, Pathophysiology, Signs, Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Management
Definition
- Absence Seizure is a type of seizure which involves brief, sudden lapses in attention causing blank out or sometimes staring look.
- Can occurs at any age but typically begins between 4-8 years.
- Female > Male
- Often precipitated by hyperventilation.
Morphology
- Brief, vacant, staring look, lasting few seconds.
Types
- Typical AbsenceSeizure
- Atypical AbsenceSeizure (Rare)
Associations
- Hyperventilation
- Sleep deprivation
- Decline in scholastic performance
- Emotional stress
Mnemonic: Heart broken
Pathophysiology
Site of pathology: Thalamo cortical neurons
Investigations
Electroencephalography (EEG) : Investigation of choice
- 3 Hz spike & slow wave pattern
Treatment
- Antiepileptic drugs
Atypical Absence Seizure
- Rare
- Loss of tone & unconsciousness also
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