Hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe)

What it measures

Detects antibody against HBeAg. Its appearance (seroconversion) usually signals falling viral replication and lower infectivity.

Specimen and preparation

• Specimen: Serum or plasma
• Tube: Gold top

Reference range

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

• HBeAg seroconversion during recovery or treatment
• Inactive carrier state
• HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis (with high HBV DNA)

Method

CLIA/ECLIA or ELISA

Good to know

Interpret with HBsAg, HBeAg and HBV DNA; anti-HBe alone does not exclude ongoing liver damage.

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