petit mal
Pronunciation: peh-TEE mahl
Outdated term for absence seizures, characterized by brief episodes of impaired consciousness.
Full Definition
Petit mal is an obsolete term historically used to describe absence seizures, particularly childhood absence epilepsy. The modern preferred terminology is 'absence seizure' or 'typical absence seizure.' These seizures are characterized by brief episodes (usually 10-20 seconds) of impaired consciousness with minimal motor activity, often appearing as blank staring spells. The term 'petit mal' has fallen out of favor in medical literature due to its imprecise nature and potential for confusion with other seizure types. Current classification systems use more specific descriptive terminology.
Usage
Usage note: This term is outdated; use 'absence seizure' or 'typical absence seizure' in current practice.
In Context
- "The historical term 'petit mal' has been replaced by 'absence seizure' in current classification." — Medical education material
- "Parents reported episodes consistent with what was formerly called petit mal seizures." — Pediatric neurology consultation