Absence seizures and variants

Absence seizures include classic absence, impulsive petit mal, juvenile absence seizures with myoclonic phenomena, and atonic-astatic seizures. Proper diagnosis requires careful historical elucidation of the actual seizure events, family history of seizures, and of other neurologic abnormalities. Electroencephalographic studies must include proper activation techniques. Treatment is initiated with antiepileptic drugs likely to be effective against generalized discharges: ethosuximide and valproate.