Definition

Noun: - A specific type of absence seizure, a brief impairment of consciousness, characterized by its simplicity and the absence of other motor or cognitive complications. It is identified by a distinct 3-per-second spike-and-wave pattern on an electroencephalogram (EEG).

Usage

This is a specialized medical term used primarily in neurology and clinical settings to describe and diagnose a particular form of epileptic seizure. - The EEG confirmed the diagnosis of pure absence. - Children with pure absence may experience very brief staring spells.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used to distinguish this specific seizure type from atypical absence or absence seizures that are accompanied by other features like muscle twitches or prolonged confusion.

Variants and Related Words

• Absence seizure (n): The general category of seizures involving brief lapses in awareness.
• Petit mal (n): An older, non-specific term sometimes used synonymously with absence seizures.
• Typical absence (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with "pure absence."

Synonyms

• Typical absence
• Simple absence seizure

Antonyms

• Complex partial seizure: A seizure type involving impaired awareness automatisms (like lip-smacking).
• Atypical absence: An absence seizure with additional complicating features, such as a slower EEG pattern or changes in muscle tone.

Noun

1. an absence seizure without other complications; followed by 3-per-sec brainwave spikes