Juvenile Absence Epilepsy

Juvenile absence epilepsy is a generalized epilepsy syndrome presenting with frequent absence seizures during adolescence. Etiology is largely genetic, involving mutations in ion channel genes. Pathophysiology involves abnormal thalamocortical network oscillations. Diagnosis is based on clinical history and EEG demonstrating 3 Hz spike-and-wave discharges. Management includes valproate, ethosuximide, or lamotrigine; prognosis is generally favorable with effective seizure control.