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A 5 y/o female is brought to the hospital because of episodic “blanking out” which began 1
month ago. The patient has episodes in which she abruptly stops all activity for about 10
seconds, followed by a rapid return to full consciousness. The patient’s eyes are open during
the episodes and she remains motionless with occasional motionless with occasional
“fumbling” hand movements.
After the episode the patient resumes whatever activity she was previously engaged with no
awareness that anything has occurred. She has 30 episodes per day. No convulsions.
Past medical, physical and developmental histories are unremarkable. No history of previous
or current medications; No allergies, Family history is pertinent for her father having similar
episodes as a child. General physical and neurological examination is normal.
QUESTIONS:
EEG (Electro Encephalogram) is the most widely used test. This test records
brain’s electrical activity and abnormalities that indicate absence seizure. Blood test, MRI
and CT – but the results will be normal in case of absence seizure. Screening for
attention/behavioural problem is recommended.
The remission rate of childhood absence seizure is good. 80% of the patients respond to
medications. The patient is required to be free from triggering factors, avoid sleep
deprivation, flickering lights and noisy environments. The seizures occurring frequent and
brief last only for a few seconds.
Most children with absence seizure eventually outgrow the condition without complications.
With proper treatment, the child can have a normal life at home and school. There is no long-
term effect on brain development, brain function or intelligence.