MLT GlobeHepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)
Hepatitis · also called HBe antigen
What it measures
Detects a soluble viral protein released during active HBV replication. It indicates high viral load and high infectivity in HBsAg-positive patients.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Serum or plasma
- Tube: Gold top
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| All | Non-reactive |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Active viral replication and high infectivity
- HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B
- High risk of mother-to-child transmission
Method
CLIA/ECLIA or ELISA
Good to know
Precore/core-promoter mutants can replicate actively while HBeAg-negative, so HBV DNA is the better marker of replication.
Related tests
Hepatitis A IgM antibody (anti-HAV IgM)Hepatitis B core IgM antibody (anti-HBc IgM)Hepatitis B core total antibody (anti-HBc total)Hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe)Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs)Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)Hepatitis B virus DNA (viral load)Hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV)
📱 Practise with a timer, track your score and earn certificates in the free MLT Globe app – Google Play or practise online.