Final Answer:
An idiosyncratic, physiologic reaction to ETOH, including rash, nausea, tachycardia, and hypotension, occurs more commonly in individuals of Asian descent.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certain populations, particularly individuals of East Asian descent, are more prone to an idiosyncratic reaction to alcohol, commonly referred to as alcohol flush reaction or Asian flush. This reaction is associated with a genetic variant that affects the metabolism of alcohol.
In individuals with this genetic variation, alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde at an accelerated rate, leading to an accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body. Acetaldehyde is a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism and is responsible for the symptoms observed in this idiosyncratic reaction.
The symptoms of the alcohol flush reaction include facial flushing, nausea, tachycardia (increased heart rate), and hypotension (low blood pressure). These symptoms are often more pronounced and occur more rapidly than in individuals without the genetic variant.
The genetic variation involves a mutation in the ALDH2 gene, which encodes an enzyme responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde. The reduced activity of this enzyme results in a higher concentration of acetaldehyde, leading to the observed physiological responses.
Understanding the ethnic predisposition to the alcohol flush reaction is crucial for healthcare professionals, particularly when assessing the impact of alcohol consumption on individuals of Asian descent. While this reaction is not exclusive to this population, it occurs more frequently among Asians. Knowledge of this genetic variation can inform healthcare providers about potential adverse reactions and guide personalized health advice related to alcohol consumption for affected individuals.