This study, conducted in children with typical or atypical "absence" epilepsy, will consist of noninvasive recording of the metabolic activity of the brain concomitantly with electroencephalographic recording during seizures without the need for any additional examination. This examination will be performed by combining near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) optical imaging and Electroencephalography (EEG) in a simultaneous High-Resolution (HR) recording.

Surface electroencephalography (EEG) is a valuable tool to assess neuronal dysfunction from a functional point of view and is used in the routine follow-up of epileptic children. Optical imaging is a recent and promising medical imaging technique, which uses near-infrared light. This rapid, noninvasive and harmless quantitative technique can be easily used at the child's bedside or in the ward and provides metabolic information on brain functioning.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children aged 3 to 14 years
• Featuring absence epilepsy with typical or atypical seizures characterized by the presence of spontaneous spike-wave flashes with standard EEG

Exclusion Criteria:

• All children with severe congenital malformation
• Any refusal of a parent or child
• Any child with a serious deterioration in the general condition and vital functions
• Any child with dermatitis of the face or scalp
• Children under 3 years old or over 14 years

children with absence epilepsy presenting either typical or atypical seizures