Flushing occurs following alcohol ingestion in patients taking:(1995)
**Core Concept**
Flushing occurs due to an abnormal reaction to alcohol in certain individuals, involving a specific enzyme that catalyzes the metabolism of alcohol. This reaction is associated with a deficiency in this enzyme, leading to an accumulation of toxic metabolites.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to patients taking disulfiram. Disulfiram works by inhibiting the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), which is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. When disulfiram is taken, it prevents the conversion of acetaldehyde to acetate, leading to its accumulation and causing the characteristic symptoms of flushing, nausea, and vomiting.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not directly relate to the mechanism of flushing caused by alcohol ingestion.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not relevant to the context of flushing in patients taking medication.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a known cause of flushing in patients taking medication.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A deficiency in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is a common genetic variant found in individuals of East Asian descent, which can lead to an increased risk of flushing and other adverse reactions to alcohol.
**Correct Answer:** C. Disulfiram.