In which population is the Doll's Eyes Reflex considered to be normal despite potential brain injury?

• A. Adults
• B. Sedated patients
• C. Infants
• D. Elderly

Answer: (C)

The Doll's Eyes reflex, or oculocephalic reflex, tests whether the brainstem pathways controlling the vestibulo-ocular reflex are functioning. When the head is turned, the eyes should move opposite to the head if the brainstem is intact. In adults, this reflex helps assess brainstem damage: it’s typically present if the brainstem is functioning but can be absent with injury or dampened by sedation. In infants, this reflex is a normal developmental response; it is expected to be present due to immature, developing brainstem–vestibular circuits. Therefore, the reflex is considered normal in infants even if there might be brain injury, because its presence is a typical finding at that age.