What condition is characterized by a very low body temperature?

The condition characterized by a very low body temperature is hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat more quickly than it can produce it, leading to a significantly reduced core body temperature, usually below 95°F (35°C). This can happen due to prolonged exposure to cold weather, immersion in cold water, or inadequate clothing in chilly environments. Common symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, fatigue, and in severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening complications.

Hyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature and does not apply here, while normothermia means the body is at a normal temperature range, typically around 98.6°F (37°C). Temperature instability implies fluctuations in body temperature but does not specifically define low temperatures as hypothermia does. Therefore, hypothermia is the clear and accurate answer for a condition of very low body temperature.