## **Core Concept**
The question describes a child exhibiting unusual behavior, including undressing, closing his eyes for a period, and becoming lethargic. This scenario suggests a condition known as **absence seizures** or **petit mal seizures**, which are characterized by brief, sudden lapses in consciousness.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The behavior described aligns with absence seizures, which are a type of epilepsy. During an absence seizure, the child may suddenly stop responding, stare blankly, and may exhibit automatisms (repetitive behaviors like undressing). The episode is typically short-lived, lasting only a few seconds, and is followed by a return to normal activity, often without a post-ictal phase of lethargy but can be associated with confusion or lethargy post-seizure. The described behavior of closing his eyes and becoming lethargic afterward could suggest a post-ictal phase or a more complex seizure activity.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is not provided, but typically, incorrect options might include conditions like psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), which can present with similar behaviors but are not associated with the same electroencephalographic (EEG) changes as epileptic seizures.
- **Option B:** Similarly, this option is not provided, but another incorrect choice might be a sleep disorder, which could explain lethargy but not the specific behaviors like undressing during an episode.
- **Option C:** Without the specific option provided, it's hard to address directly, but generally, other seizure types like partial seizures could present with focal symptoms but might not typically cause the exact constellation of behaviors described.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **absence seizures** are often associated with a **3 Hz spike-and-wave pattern** on EEG and are more common in children. A classic clinical clue is that children with absence seizures may have a history of staring spells and may exhibit automatisms during episodes.
## **Correct Answer:** C. Absence seizures.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.