What two comorbidities are commonly associated with absence seizures?

Absence seizures are a type of generalized seizure that is characterized by brief lapses in consciousness, often without any noticeable convulsions. It is important to recognize that these seizures commonly occur in children and can be associated with specific comorbidities.

Among these, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety are indeed frequently identified comorbid conditions in children with absence seizures. ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, and children with absence seizures may experience difficulties with attention and focus, exacerbating the challenges associated with ADHD. Additionally, anxiety can develop as children struggle to cope with the unpredictability of their seizures, leading to increased stress and worry about their condition and its impact on daily activities.

Other options listed, while they might also be relevant to some extent in the broader context of pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, do not align as closely with the typical comorbidity profile seen in patients with absence seizures. For instance, while depression and learning disabilities can be prevalent in this population, ADHD and anxiety have been more strongly associated specifically with the experience of absence seizures.