An absence seizure, also known as a petit mal seizure, is a type of epilepsy characterized by brief, sudden lapses in consciousness. During an absence seizure, the individual may appear to be staring blankly into space and may not respond to external stimuli. These seizures typically last for a few seconds and are often not recognized as seizures by observers.This type of seizure usually doesn't lead to physical injury. Absence seizures usually can be controlled with anti-seizure medicines.