Absence Seizures

Petit mal seizure

This is a form of Epilepsy in which Seizures are caused by abnormal neuronal discharge in the brain -- the "wires" of the brain's electrical circuitry get crossed and discharge abnormally). Absence seizures are characterized by impairment of consciousness or posture, and usually last only a few seconds. This type of seizure is more common in those under age 20.

Usually begin between ages 6 to 14 years and resolve by age 20

Sudden, brief, loss of consciousness (the child appears to "space out" for a few seconds)

Eye fluttering

Speech suddenly ceases for a few seconds

Chewing movements or lip smacking

Hand shaking

Loss of body muscle tone, and falling if standing

Urine incontinence

No confusion following a seizure

There is an atypical form of absence seizure that differs from the typical form in its duration (i.e., lasts longer), has a slower onset, slower recovery, and may be associated with confusion.

A child may have no memory in both forms of absence seizures.