CPT® Code 90759

The hepatitis B vaccine (HepB) is designed to provide active, long-term immunity against hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that can lead to chronic disease, hospitalization, and even death. Unlike immune globulins, which offer short-term, passive immunity, vaccines stimulate the recipient's immune system to produce its own antibodies. This process involves exposing the immune system to altered versions of the hepatitis B virus, prompting it to recognize and remember how to combat the virus in future encounters. The HepB vaccine is particularly significant as it not only protects against the immediate effects of the virus but also mitigates the risk of long-term complications, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, making it one of the pioneering cancer vaccines in medical use. The vaccine can be derived from the blood plasma of asymptomatic carriers or synthesized through recombinant technology, where a plasmid containing the hepatitis gene is inserted into baker's yeast. This yeast is then lysed, and the components are purified to create the vaccine. The CPT® Code 90759 specifically refers to the adult 3-antigen hepatitis B vaccine, which includes the S, Pre-S1, and Pre-S2 surface antigens, administered in a three-dose schedule via intramuscular injection. It is important to note that this code solely reports the vaccine product, and the administration of the injection should be billed separately.