Characteristic red face and neck that some Asian people get when drinking alcohol. The reason for this is not allergy, but because of a defective enzyme, acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which breaks down a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, acetaldehyde, into acetic acid. Thus, the acetaldehyde levels build up and cause the skin flushing, rapid heart rate, and sweating.
by Pete1018 May 11, 2007