Final answer:
Malignant hyperthermia is a condition characterized by a severe reaction to anesthesia drugs. It is caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts calcium regulation in muscles, leading to sustained muscle contractions and elevated body temperature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening condition characterized by a severe reaction to certain drugs used during general anesthesia. It is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the regulation of calcium in skeletal muscles. When individuals with this mutation receive triggering medications, their body's calcium regulation system becomes disrupted, leading to uncontrolled release of calcium in the muscle cells. This results in sustained muscle contraction, increased metabolism, heat production, and a rapid rise in body temperature.