What are absence seizures?
Brief staring spells with impaired awareness lasting 5–20 seconds — often mistaken for daydreaming. Most common in children but occurs in adults.
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Diagnosis
EEG showing 3 Hz generalized spike-and-wave — diagnostic. Hyperventilation during EEG often provokes seizures.
Treatment
Ethosuximide first-line for childhood absence, valproate or lamotrigine alternatives. Avoid carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital.