absence seizure

:  a nonconvulsive seizure that is marked by the temporary impairment of consciousness usually manifested as a blank facial expression, that begins and ends abruptly, and that is usually unremembered afterward ◆An absence seizure is a type of generalized seizure affecting both cerebral hemispheres and usually lasting from a few seconds to no more than 30 seconds. Absence seizures are often accompanied by unconscious repetitive movements (such as smacking of the lips or blinking of the eyelids) and may occur many times a day. This type of seizure is characteristic of childhood and juvenile absence epilepsies. —called also absence, petit mal, petit mal seizure