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Monday, January 26, 2009

Petit Mal Seizure

It is commonly referred to as Absence seizure(minor epilepsy)
It is most commonly prevalent in children which lasts for about 1/2min

Signs include:-

Momentary loss of consciousness,patient apparently freezes and stares in one direction.No muscular component or little bilateral jerking,EEG shows characteristic 3cycles per second spike and wave pattern

Alternative Explanation

Absence seizure — also known as petit mal seizure — involves only a brief, sudden lapse of conscious activity. Occurring most often in children, absence seizure may look like the person is merely staring into space for a few seconds.

Compared with other types of epileptic seizures, the petit mal variety is very mild. But that doesn't mean they can't be dangerous. Children with a history of absence seizure must be supervised carefully while swimming or bathing, because of the danger of drowning. They may also be restricted from driving and other potentially hazardous activities.

Some people experience hundreds of these episodes each day, which interferes with their performance at school or work. Absence seizures can usually be controlled with anti-seizure medications. Many children outgrow these seizures in their teen years.

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The Views and Answers expressed in this blog are based on the reference of the Standard text books.You are requested to seek advice of your physician before practicing/believing the info given.