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Definition of Absence seizure

Absence seizure: A seizure that takes the form of a staring spell. The person suddenly seems to be "absent." An absence seizure involves a brief loss of awareness, which can be accompanied by blinking or mouth twitching. Absence seizures have a very characteristic appearance on an electroencephalogram (EEG).

Also called a petit mal seizure.


Last Editorial Review: 6/2/2004

Common Misspellings: absence siezure

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