Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) is a small polypeptide that exists in a free form in the serum of individuals during the early phase of hepatitis B infection, soon after hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) becomes detectable.
This test is useful for determining infectivity of hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers. Monitoring infection status of individuals with chronic hepatitis B. Monitoring serologic response of chronically HBV-infected patients receiving antiviral therapy. Determining the levels of both hepatitis B e-antigen and antibody.
Presence of hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) and absence of HBe antibody (anti-HBe) usually indicate active hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication and high infectivity.
Absence of HBeAg with appearance of anti-HBe is consistent with loss of HBV infectivity.
