CPT® Code 90750

The CPT® Code 90750 refers to the Zoster (shingles) vaccine, specifically a recombinant, subunit, adjuvanted formulation intended for intramuscular use. This vaccine is designed to provide active, long-term immunity against the herpes zoster virus, which is responsible for shingles. Unlike immune globulins that offer short-term, passive immunity, vaccines stimulate the recipient's immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens. The herpes zoster vaccine contains a recombinant version of the varicella zoster virus glycoprotein E (gE), which is enhanced with a proprietary adjuvant system. This adjuvant is crucial as it amplifies the immune response to the glycoprotein, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing the reactivation of the latent virus. When the varicella zoster virus reactivates, it can lead to shingles, characterized by a painful, dermatomal rash consisting of small vesicles. In some cases, this condition can result in chronic neuropathic pain even after the rash has healed, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing such complications.