JUVENILE ABSENCE EPILEPSY (JAE)

OVERVIEW

This idiopathic generalized epilepsy is characterized by absence seizures, that usually occur less than daily, in an otherwise normal adolescent or adult. Generalized tonic-clonic seizures typically also occur. With absence seizures in a child aged between 8 and 12 years, a diagnosis of juvenile absence epilepsy or childhood absence epilepsy depends on the frequency of the absence seizures - absence seizures are less frequent in childhood absence epilepsy.

Clinical context

This epilepsy syndrome is characterized by absence seizures that onset 8-20 years of age (peak 9-13 years). Less commonly, adolescents may present with generalized tonic-clonic seizures prior to onset of absences. Both males and females are affected. Antecedent, birth and neonatal history is normal. Neurological examination and head size are normal. Development and cognition prior to presentation are typically normal. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning difficulties may also occur. A previous history of febrile seizures is seen occasionally.