What is Petit mal epilepsy?
Petit mal epilepsy is a form of epilepsy that causes seizures known as absence seizures or petit mal seizures. Someone who has these seizures experiences a brief lapse in conscious thought and activity. During an absence seizure, he or she might suddenly stop moving and stare into space for several seconds or longer before resuming activity. In most cases, seizures caused by petit mal epilepsy can be managed with medication.