Quiz Form

Question Date: 16/11/2023

Question: An 8-year-old boy presents with frequent staring episodes while in class. Based on the electroencephalogram (EEG) shown, which of the following is the most appropriate medication for this patient?

Options:

Valproic acid
Ethosuximide
Phenytoin
Carbamazepine

Correct Answer: Ethosuximide

View Image: Image_20231107101439654a0e0f247ce.png

Explaination: The EEG demonstrates the typical 3-Hz spike and wave pattern seen in absence epilepsy. The best medication for absence epilepsy is ethosuximide<br>Valproic acid is also used in absence epilepsy, but typically if there are generalized tonic-clonic seizures in addition to staring episodes. Phenytoin and carbamazepine have the potential to worsen generalized epilepsy.