Juvenile absent epilepsy (EAJ)

This article was written by Dr. Aursulesei Ruxandra, pediatric neurologist specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating neurological conditions. Pediatric neurology plays an important role in the periodic neurological evaluation of premature infants, as well as of all newborns at risk of developing neurological sequelae, with the goal of early detection and treatment of any impairment of the nervous system.

What is juvenile absence epilepsy (JAE)?

Juvenile absence epilepsy is an epileptic syndrome characterized by generalized seizures, predominantly of the absence type.

What causes JAE?

The etiology is probably genetic.

Can it be transmitted genetically?

Yes.

When does JAE occur?

Most commonly between ages 9-10, but it can occur between ages 7-17.

What do the seizures look like?

The seizures are of the absence type, occurring predominantly upon waking, and are less frequent compared to childhood absence epilepsy. Impairment of consciousness is less pronounced than in childhood absence epilepsy, and the seizures are triggered by hyperventilation.

It can also be associated with generalized tonic-clonic seizures (in 90% of cases) and myoclonic seizures.

Centrokinetic is prepared for this specialization with a team of experienced doctors and the necessary equipment for diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. Find out more about pediatric neurology and book an appointment at Centrokinetic here.

How long does an absence seizure last?

In the case of JAE, it lasts approximately 4-30 seconds. In 20% of patients, absence-type nonconvulsive status epilepticus can occur.

Can it affect the child's psychomotor development?

No. The neurological and psychiatric exam is within normal limits both before and after the onset of the condition.

Do the seizures persist for life?

Yes, however, as the person gets older, they become shorter and milder.