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Official Description

Botulism immune globulin, human, for intravenous use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 90288 refers to botulism immune globulin, human, specifically formulated for intravenous use. This immunizing agent is designed to provide effective, short-term passive immunity against botulism, a serious illness caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Unlike active immunization, where the recipient's immune system is stimulated to produce its own antibodies, passive immunity involves the direct transfer of antibodies from another source. In this case, the antibodies are derived from pooled donor blood from individuals who have already developed immunity to botulism. As a result, the recipient receives immediate protection without the need for their immune system to respond. This code is utilized solely to report the administration of the human botulism immune globulin product for intravenous use, ensuring accurate documentation and billing for this specific therapeutic intervention.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The administration of botulism immune globulin, human, is indicated for the treatment of individuals who are at risk of developing botulism, particularly in cases of suspected or confirmed exposure to botulinum toxin. This product is especially relevant for infants with suspected infant botulism, as well as for adults and children who may have been exposed to the toxin through foodborne sources or other means.

  • Infant Botulism This condition occurs when infants ingest spores of Clostridium botulinum, which then grow and produce toxins in the intestines, leading to severe illness.
  • Foodborne Botulism This type of botulism results from consuming foods that contain pre-formed botulinum toxin, necessitating immediate intervention to prevent serious health complications.

2. Procedure

The procedure for administering botulism immune globulin involves several critical steps to ensure safety and efficacy. First, the healthcare provider must verify the patient's eligibility for treatment, confirming the indication for botulism immune globulin administration. Following this, the provider prepares the immune globulin solution, ensuring that it is properly thawed and mixed according to the manufacturer's guidelines. The next step involves selecting an appropriate intravenous access site, typically a peripheral vein, to facilitate the administration of the immune globulin. Once the site is prepared and cleaned, the healthcare provider will insert an intravenous catheter and secure it in place. The botulism immune globulin is then administered slowly through the IV line, monitoring the patient for any adverse reactions during the infusion. After the administration is complete, the provider will observe the patient for a period to ensure there are no immediate side effects and provide post-procedure instructions as necessary.

  • Step 1: Patient Verification Confirm the patient's indication for treatment and eligibility for botulism immune globulin administration.
  • Step 2: Preparation of Immune Globulin Thaw and mix the immune globulin solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Step 3: IV Access Site Selection Choose an appropriate peripheral vein for intravenous access and prepare the site.
  • Step 4: IV Catheter Insertion Insert the intravenous catheter into the selected vein and secure it properly.
  • Step 5: Administration of Immune Globulin Administer the botulism immune globulin slowly through the IV line while monitoring the patient.
  • Step 6: Post-Administration Observation Observe the patient for any adverse reactions following the infusion and provide necessary post-procedure instructions.

3. Post-Procedure

After the administration of botulism immune globulin, it is essential to monitor the patient for any potential side effects or allergic reactions, which may include fever, chills, or rash. The healthcare provider should ensure that the patient is stable before discharge and provide clear instructions regarding any follow-up care or symptoms to watch for. Patients may be advised to report any unusual symptoms or reactions that occur after the procedure. Additionally, documentation of the administration, including the lot number of the immune globulin and the patient's response, should be completed to maintain accurate medical records.

Short Descr BOTULISM IG IV
Medium Descr BOTULISM IMMUNE GLOBULIN HUMAN INTRAVENOUS USE
Long Descr Botulism immune globulin, human, for intravenous use
Status Code Not Valid for Medicare Purposes
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Non-Covered Service, not paid under OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6D - Minor procedures - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 0
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1999-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1999.
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