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Official Description

Rabies immune globulin (RIg), human, for intramuscular and/or subcutaneous use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The rabies immune globulin (RIg) is a specialized immunizing agent that provides immediate, short-term passive immunity against the rabies virus. This preparation consists of a concentrated solution of antibodies derived from pooled human donor blood, specifically from individuals who have developed immunity to rabies. Unlike active immunization, where the recipient's immune system is stimulated to produce its own antibodies, the administration of RIg offers immediate protection by supplying pre-formed antibodies directly into the bloodstream. This passive immunity is crucial for individuals who have been exposed to the rabies virus, as it helps to neutralize the virus and prevent the onset of the disease. The code CPT® 90375 specifically pertains to the reporting of human rabies immune globulin for either intramuscular or subcutaneous administration. It is important to note that this code solely represents the immune globulin product used and does not encompass any additional treatments or vaccines that may be required in conjunction with rabies exposure. For cases where a heat-treated version of the immune globulin is utilized, the code 90376 should be reported, indicating that the product has undergone a specific heat treatment process designed to inactivate viruses and minimize the risk of blood-borne viral transmission.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The rabies immune globulin (RIg) is indicated for individuals who have been exposed to the rabies virus, particularly in situations where there is a risk of rabies transmission. This includes, but is not limited to, the following scenarios:

  • Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Individuals who have been bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of being rabid, or who have had direct contact with the saliva of a rabid animal.
  • High-Risk Occupational Exposure Healthcare workers or laboratory personnel who may be exposed to the rabies virus through their work.
  • Travel to Endemic Areas Travelers who are visiting regions where rabies is prevalent and may come into contact with potentially rabid animals.

2. Procedure

The administration of rabies immune globulin involves several key procedural steps to ensure effective delivery and patient safety. The following steps outline the procedure:

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment Prior to administration, a thorough assessment of the patient's exposure history and risk factors for rabies is conducted. This includes evaluating the type of exposure, the animal involved, and the patient's vaccination history against rabies.
  • Step 2: Preparation of the Immune Globulin The rabies immune globulin is prepared for administration. This may involve drawing the appropriate dosage from a vial, ensuring that the solution is clear and free from particulate matter.
  • Step 3: Administration The immune globulin is administered either intramuscularly or subcutaneously, depending on the clinical guidelines and the specific needs of the patient. The injection site is typically chosen based on the volume of the solution and the patient's age and size.
  • Step 4: Monitoring After administration, the patient is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions or side effects. This is crucial to ensure patient safety and to address any potential complications promptly.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the administration of rabies immune globulin, patients are advised on post-procedure care and monitoring. It is essential to observe for any signs of allergic reactions or adverse effects, which may include swelling at the injection site, fever, or other systemic reactions. Patients should also be informed about the importance of completing the rabies vaccination series, if indicated, to ensure long-term protection against the virus. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the patient's response to treatment and to provide additional vaccinations as part of the post-exposure prophylaxis protocol.

Short Descr RABIES IG IM/SC
Medium Descr RABIES IMMUNE GLOBULIN RIG HUMAN IM/SUBQ
Long Descr Rabies immune globulin (RIg), human, for intramuscular and/or subcutaneous use
Related Drugs HyperRAB
Status Code Excluded from Physician Fee Schedule by Regulation
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 Nonpass-Through Drugs and Nonimplantable Biologicals, Including Therapeutic Radiopharmaceuticals
ASC Payment Indicator Drugs and biologicals paid separately when provided integral to a surgical procedure on ASC list; payment based on OPPS rate.
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6D - Minor procedures - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 20
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
JZ Zero drug amount discarded/not administered to any patient
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
JW Drug amount discarded/not administered to any patient
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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