Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is one of the most common pediatric epilepsy syndromes, experience only absence seizures, which are short staring spells that cannot be interrupted by voice or touch. Due to the subtle nature of these seizures and their close association with learning difficulties, particularly attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), diagnosis of CAE can be delayed. Such delay can result in poor educational, social and employment outcomes in both the short- and long-term. However, expanding awareness of CAE, its symptoms and its impact on learning and mental health among patients, parents, teachers,
pediatricians/family physicians and the community, may help with early recognition and treatment of the disease. Indeed, recognizing and treating CAE sooner would help improve the current and future quality of life of those with this disease and their families.
