Absence Seizures

Question 1

Who are absence seizures more commonly seen in & what age group?

Answer 1

Children

3-10 years old

Question 2

Are absence seizures more common in girls or boys?

Answer 2

Girls

Question 3

What are some features of absence seizures?

Answer 3

• Absences last a few seconds and are associated with a quick recovery
• Seizures may be provoked by hyperventilation or stress
• The child is usually unaware of the seizure
• They may occur many times a day
• EEG: bilateral, symmetrical 3Hz spike and wave pattern

Question 4

What is the treatment of absence seizures?

Answer 4

Sodium valproate and ethosuximide

Question 5

What is the prognosis of absence seizures?

Answer 5

Good prognosis - 90-95% become seizure free in adolescence