Alcohol flush reaction

Alcohol Flush Reaction

Illustration of the alcohol flushing response

The alcohol flush reaction is a condition in which the face and sometimes other parts of the body experience flushing or redness after the consumption of alcohol. This reaction is primarily due to an accumulation of acetaldehyde, a metabolic byproduct of alcohol, in the body.

Causes

The alcohol flush reaction is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), which is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde into acetic acid. Individuals with an inactive form of the ALDH2 enzyme cannot efficiently metabolize acetaldehyde, leading to its accumulation and the subsequent flushing response.

Genetic Basis

Frequency of ALDH2 rs671 genotype

The genetic basis of the alcohol flush reaction is linked to a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ALDH2 gene, known as rs671. This SNP results in the substitution of glutamic acid with lysine at position 487 of the enzyme, rendering it inactive. The inactive form of ALDH2 is prevalent among East Asian populations, which explains the higher incidence of alcohol flush reaction in these groups.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of the alcohol flush reaction is facial flushing, but it can also include:

• Increased heart rate
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• General discomfort

Health Implications

Individuals with the alcohol flush reaction may have an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer due to the carcinogenic effects of acetaldehyde. The accumulation of acetaldehyde can also lead to other health issues, such as hypertension and alcohol intolerance.

Management

There is no cure for the alcohol flush reaction, but it can be managed by avoiding alcohol consumption or using medications that inhibit alcohol metabolism. Some individuals may choose to use cosmetic products to mask the redness associated with flushing.

Related Pages

• Aldehyde dehydrogenase
• Alcohol metabolism
• Esophageal cancer
• Genetic polymorphism

Gallery

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  Example of facial flushing in an individual with alcohol flush reaction

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  The Alcohol Flushing Response
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  Asian Flush Back
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  ALDH2 rs671 genotype frequency