What type of seizures often present with an "absence seizure" pattern on EEG?

Petit mal seizures, now commonly referred to as absence seizures, are characterized by brief episodes of staring or loss of awareness, often accompanied by subtle body movements such as blinking or twitching. On an electroencephalogram (EEG), these seizures typically present with a distinct pattern known as a 3 Hz spike-and-wave discharge, which is a hallmark of absence seizures. This pattern is integral in diagnosing such seizures, as it effectively distinguishes them from other types of seizures.

The physiological basis for this EEG pattern is related to the abnormal synchronized activity of neuronal circuits in the thalamus and cortex. During an absence seizure, the sudden onset of this rhythmic discharge leads to the characteristic clinical presentation. Understanding this connection between the clinical features and the EEG findings helps in effectively identifying and treating patients with absence seizures, paving the way for appropriate management strategies.