CPT® Code 90720

Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine and Haemophilus influenzae b vaccine (DTwP-Hib), for intramuscular use

The CPT® Code 90720 refers to the Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine combined with the Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (DTwP-Hib), which is administered via intramuscular injection. This vaccine is designed to provide long-lasting immunity against several serious bacterial infections. Toxoids, which are inactivated toxins produced by bacteria, stimulate the immune system to generate antibodies that can neutralize these toxins. By introducing altered versions of specific bacteria or viruses into the body, vaccines like DTwP-Hib help the immune system recognize and remember these pathogens, enabling it to respond more effectively upon future exposures. The process of creating a toxoid involves culturing the bacteria in a liquid medium, followed by purification and inactivation of the toxic substances they produce. This particular code is used to report the supply of the immunization against diphtheria and tetanus, in conjunction with the whole cell form of the inactivated pertussis vaccine and the Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine. It is important to note that there are other related codes for different formulations of these vaccines, such as code 90721 for the acellular pertussis variant and code 90723 for a combination that includes Hepatitis B and inactivated poliovirus vaccines. Each of these codes specifically identifies the product used in the immunization process.