Corneal reflex is an automated involuntary blinking of the eyelids elicited by stimulation (such as touching or a foreign body) of the eyeball's cornea. The evolutionary purpose of this reflex is to protect the eyes from foreign bodies.

The reflex is mediated by:

• the ophthalmic branch or ophthalmic nerve (V1) of the 5th Cranial nerve (Trigeminal) sensing the stimulus on the cornea,
• and the 7th Cranial nerve (Facial nerve) initiating the motor response.

Use of contact lenses may diminish or abolish this reflex.

The examination of the corneal reflex is a part of some neurological tests in particular the coma exam.

See also

• Reflex

External links

Reflexes