Childhood absence epilepsy is a seizure disorder that affects young children between ages 4 to 8 years. It is also known as pyknolepsy or petit mal seizures. While it can be frightening to see a child experiencing absence seizures, effective treatment options are available. This article provides an overview of childhood absence epilepsy and guidance on treatment approaches.

 

What is Childhood Absence Epilepsy?

 

Childhood absence epilepsy is characterized by brief seizures that typically last just a few seconds. During an absence seizure, the child may stare blankly into space and be unresponsive to their surroundings. They often do not fall down or shake, unlike other types of seizures. Absence seizures usually occur many times throughout the day, often hundreds of episodes. They tend to start abruptly and the child will resume their previous activity once the seizure ends.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

 

The exact cause of childhood absence epilepsy is unknown, but it often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component. Risk factors include a family history of epilepsy, developmental disorders like ADHD, and certain genetic mutations. Abnormal brainwave activity in the thalamus region of the brain is believed to underlie absence seizures.

 

Diagnosis and Evaluation

 

If a parent notices their child having absence seizures, they should consult their pediatrician. The doctor will take a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam. An EEG test is required to confirm the diagnosis, as it will show the characteristic spike-wave discharges associated with absence seizures. Other tests like an MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions. Keeping a detailed seizure diary can also help in diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

 

Treatment Options

 

Once diagnosed, effective treatment aims to control seizures and minimize learning and developmental issues. The first-line treatment is typically anti-seizure medication. Medications like ethosuximide, valproate, and lamotrigine are commonly prescribed. Dosages are carefully titrated based on the child's response and side effects. Treatment is continued for at least 2 to 3 years after seizure remission to prevent relapse.

 

Medication Management

 

Close follow-up with a Childhood Absence Epilepsy Treatment pediatric neurologist is important for optimal medication management. They will monitor seizure frequency, side effects, medication levels, and make dosage adjustments as needed. It is crucial that children take their medications as prescribed to maintain therapeutic levels. However, non-adherence should be discussed sensitively with the family to address any barriers to treatment. Parents should contact the doctor right away if seizures increase in frequency or new symptoms arise.

 

Diet and Lifestyle Strategies

 

While medications are the first-line treatment, lifestyle modifications can also help support seizure control. A healthy, well-balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-dense whole foods is recommended. Getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and regular exercise have shown benefits. Flickering screens and stimulating toys should be limited before naps or bedtime. Adjusting any triggers identified in the child's seizure diary may further reduce episodes. However, diet and lifestyle changes alone are usually insufficient without medication.

 

Prognosis and Developmental Outcomes

 

The good news is that childhood absence epilepsy has an excellent prognosis in the majority of cases. Around 80% of children will achieve complete seizure remission within 2 to 3 years of starting treatment. Any underlying developmental or cognitive issues also typically resolve once seizures are controlled. However, ongoing follow-up into adolescence is still needed in case seizures recur. With proper treatment, children with this condition generally have normal lifespans and go on to lead fulfilling lives. They often outgrow this type of epilepsy by their early teens.

 

Support Resources for Families

 

Still, having a child with seizures can take an emotional toll on parents and family members. Support groups provide an opportunity to connect with others going through similar experiences. Such organizations as the Epilepsy Foundation offer educational materials, family programming, advocacy services and camp experiences designed for children with epilepsy. Counseling may also help families effectively cope and learn strategies to talk to their child about their condition. Ensuring strong parental support is key to promoting the child's well-being, mood, self-esteem and developmental progress.

 

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