Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Absence seizure
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
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.
