Final answer:
Patients with a personal or family history of malignant hyperthermia or certain genetic mutations may be at higher risk of developing the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Malignant hyperthermia is a potentially fatal condition that can occur in response to certain medications used during surgery. Patients who may be at higher risk of malignant hyperthermia include those with a personal or family history of the condition, as well as individuals with certain genetic mutations. Malignant hyperthermia is often triggered by exposure to certain anesthetic agents, such as succinylcholine and inhalational anesthetics like halothane or isoflurane. If a patient exhibits symptoms such as muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, fever, and profuse sweating during or after surgery, it is important to recognize and treat malignant hyperthermia promptly.