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Official Description

Human Papillomavirus vaccine, types 6, 11, 16, 18, quadrivalent (4vHPV), 3 dose schedule, for intramuscular use

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is designed to provide protection against specific types of HPV that are known to cause various health issues, including cervical cancer. This vaccine is administered through intramuscular injection and follows a multi-dose schedule, specifically a three-dose regimen. Unlike immune globulins, which offer temporary, passive immunity, vaccines like the HPV vaccine work by stimulating the recipient's immune system to develop its own long-lasting immunity. This is achieved by introducing an altered version of the virus, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies that can recognize and combat the actual virus if encountered in the future. The HPV virus comprises over 100 different types, some of which can lead to benign warts, while others, particularly high-risk strains, are associated with the development of cervical cancer. The effectiveness of the vaccine is maximized when administered before the individual has been exposed to the virus, thereby preventing infection and its potential long-term consequences. The CPT® Code 90649 specifically refers to the quadrivalent (4vHPV) vaccine, which targets types 6, 11, 16, and 18, and is part of a three-dose schedule. This code is used solely to report the supply of this particular vaccine product, distinguishing it from other HPV vaccines that target different strains, such as the bivalent (2vHPV) and nonavalent (9vHPV) vaccines, which are reported under different CPT® codes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is indicated for the prevention of infections caused by specific types of HPV, particularly those associated with the development of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. The following conditions and circumstances warrant the administration of this vaccine:

  • Prevention of Cervical Cancer The vaccine is primarily indicated for individuals to prevent cervical cancer caused by high-risk HPV types 16 and 18.
  • Prevention of Genital Warts The vaccine also helps in preventing the occurrence of genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11.
  • Vaccination Before Sexual Activity It is recommended to administer the vaccine before the onset of sexual activity to ensure maximum efficacy in preventing HPV infection.

2. Procedure

The administration of the Human Papillomavirus vaccine involves a structured procedure that includes the following steps:

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment Prior to vaccination, a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history and any potential contraindications to the vaccine should be conducted. This includes evaluating any previous allergic reactions to vaccine components or other medical conditions that may affect vaccine administration.
  • Step 2: Preparation of Vaccine The quadrivalent HPV vaccine (CPT® Code 90649) should be prepared according to the manufacturer's guidelines. This includes checking the vaccine's expiration date, ensuring proper storage conditions, and shaking the vial gently to mix the vaccine before drawing it into the syringe.
  • Step 3: Administration of Vaccine The vaccine is administered intramuscularly, typically in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. The injection site should be cleaned with an alcohol swab prior to administration to minimize the risk of infection. The healthcare provider should ensure that the vaccine is injected at the correct angle and depth to ensure proper delivery.
  • Step 4: Post-Administration Monitoring After the vaccine is administered, the patient should be monitored for a short period to observe for any immediate adverse reactions. This is typically done for about 15 minutes, especially in individuals with a history of allergies.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the administration of the HPV vaccine, patients may experience mild side effects, which can include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue. These effects are generally short-lived and resolve without intervention. It is important to inform patients about the need for follow-up doses as part of the three-dose schedule to ensure optimal immunity. Patients should also be advised to report any unusual or severe reactions to their healthcare provider. Additionally, educational materials regarding the importance of completing the vaccination series and the role of the HPV vaccine in cancer prevention should be provided to the patient.

Short Descr 4VHPV VACCINE 3 DOSE IM
Medium Descr 4VHPV VACCINE 3 DOSE SCHEDULE FOR IM USE
Long Descr Human Papillomavirus vaccine, types 6, 11, 16, 18, quadrivalent (4vHPV), 3 dose schedule, for intramuscular use
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 Items and Services Not Billable to the MAC
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
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
JZ Zero drug amount discarded/not administered to any patient
SL State supplied vaccine
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Changed First appearance of change in codebook.
2015-07-01 Changed Description changed.
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
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