Epilepsy Childhood Absence 4 C1970160
A form of epilepsy causing brief episodes of staring or loss of awareness. Primarily affects children and often begins before age 10. Usually responds well to anti-seizure medications.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures
Absence seizures
(neurologic)Generalized symptoms
(neurologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Myoclonic jerks
(neurologic)Learning difficulties
(neurologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Ethosuximide
First-line antiepileptic medication specifically effective for absence seizures that works by blocking T-type calcium channels in thalamic neurons, reducing seizure frequency and severity.
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Valproic Acid
Broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug effective for multiple seizure types including absence seizures, providing an alternative for patients who have comorbid generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
Additional treatment options
Ketogenic Diet
High-fat, low-carbohydrate dietary therapy that may help control seizures in children when medications are ineffective or poorly tolerated, inducing a metabolic state of ketosis.
dietaryEEG Monitoring and Follow-up
Regular electroencephalogram assessments to monitor brain wave patterns, confirm seizure control, and guide medication adjustments in childhood absence epilepsy.
monitoringSchool Accommodations and Education
Implementation of individualized education plans including reduced workload during seizures, extended testing time, and seizure action plans for teachers and school staff.
psychologicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Epilepsy Childhood Absence 4 C1970160?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Wilkinson H, Cross I, Meyer T. NICE Guidelines for Childhood Absence Epilepsy Management. Pract Neurol. 2022.
Glauser TA, Cnaan A, Shinnar S. Ethosuximide Valproic Acid and Lamotrigine in Childhood Absence Epilepsy. N Engl J Med. 2010.
Masur D, Shinnar S, Cnaan A. Pretreatment EEG Abnormalities Predict Clinical Response to Ethosuximide in CAE. Ann Neurol. 2013.
Brignole M, Guizard N, Evans R. Comparative Efficacy of Anti-Absence Drugs in Childhood Absence Epilepsy: A Systematic Review. Epilepsia Open. 2021.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Epilepsy Childhood Absence 4 C1970160. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy