Hepatitis Be Antibody (Anti-HBe) Test
Short Name: Anti-HBe Test
Also known as: Anti-HBe Test, HBe Antibody Test, Hepatitis B e Antibody, Anti-HBe Serology, HBeAb Test
Hepatitis Be Antibody (Anti-HBe) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹936. Uses CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Same day to next working day. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Anti-HBe test is performed to detect antibodies against Hepatitis B e antigen. It is primarily used to identify seroconversion from HBeAg to Anti-HBe, which typically indicates reduced viral replication and lower infectivity. This test is essential for monitoring the progression of Hepatitis B infection, evaluating treatment response, and determining the patient's infectivity status. It is useful for recognition of resolution of HBV infection with seroconversion of HBeAg to Anti-HBe, which usually indicates loss of infectivity, though carrier state may persist.
- Test Code
- 721
- CPT Code
- 86707
- ICD Code
- B18.1
- Price
- ₹936
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Same day to next working day
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
No special preparation such as fasting is required before sample collection. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, immunosuppressive therapy, or recent vaccinations as these may influence test results.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect approximately 2 mL of blood from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The blood will be transferred into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Report Delivery
After blood collection, slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site may occur and typically resolves within a day. Apply gentle pressure with cotton for a few minutes. There are no activity restrictions after the test.
Timeline: Same day to next working day
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Anti-HBe test is performed to detect antibodies against Hepatitis B e antigen. It is primarily used to identify seroconversion from HBeAg to Anti-HBe, which typically indicates reduced viral replication and lower infectivity. This test is essential for monitoring the progression of Hepatitis B infection, evaluating treatment response, and determining the patient's infectivity status. It is useful for recognition of resolution of HBV infection with seroconversion of HBeAg to Anti-HBe, which usually indicates loss of infectivity, though carrier state may persist.
How to Prepare
- No fasting required prior to sample collection
- Stay well hydrated before the blood draw
- Inform the phlebotomist of any blood-thinning medications
- Wear loose-fitting sleeves for easy access to the arm
- The sample will be collected in a 2 mL SST (Serum Separator Tube)
- Ship the sample refrigerated or frozen as per laboratory transport guidelines
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"The Anti-HBe test is an important marker in the natural history of Hepatitis B infection. Seroconversion from HBeAg positivity to Anti-HBe positivity generally indicates reduced viral replication and lower infectivity. However, patients who are Anti-HBe positive should continue regular monitoring as chronic carrier state may persist and in some cases, pre-core mutant HBV strains can still cause active liver disease. I recommend this test as part of a comprehensive hepatitis B panel for all patients undergoing evaluation for HBV status."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or severely lipemic samples
- Samples received in improper or leaking containers
- Specimens not stored or transported at recommended temperatures
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL)
- Samples with patient identification discrepancies
- Specimens received beyond the acceptable stability window
Understanding Your Results
Anti-HBe: Reactive
Anti-HBe antibodies are detected in the blood. This usually indicates seroconversion from HBeAg to Anti-HBe, suggesting reduced viral replication and decreased infectivity. However, chronic carrier state may still persist. Clinical correlation with HBV DNA levels and liver function tests is recommended.
Anti-HBe: Non-Reactive
Anti-HBe antibodies are not detected. This may indicate active HBeAg-positive Hepatitis B infection, early infection before seroconversion, or absence of Hepatitis B infection. Correlation with HBeAg and other HBV markers is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Anti-HBe: Reactive with HBsAg Positive
Seroconversion has occurred but chronic HBV infection persists. This pattern is seen in HBeAg-negative chronic Hepatitis B, which may still cause progressive liver disease. Regular monitoring including HBV DNA and liver function tests is advised.
Anti-HBe: Reactive with HBsAg Negative
This pattern suggests resolved past Hepatitis B infection. The patient has likely cleared the virus. However, residual HBV DNA may persist in the liver. Periodic monitoring may be advised in certain clinical scenarios.
Consult your doctor if your Anti-HBe test result is reactive but you are still HBsAg positive, if you experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, or if your liver function tests are abnormal. Patients with chronic Hepatitis B should have regular follow-up with a hepatologist or infectious disease specialist regardless of Anti-HBe status to monitor for disease progression, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Limitations
- ⚠This test detects antibodies only and does not quantify HBV DNA levels
- ⚠Anti-HBe positivity does not rule out chronic carrier state or active liver disease
- ⚠Pre-core or basal core promoter mutant HBV strains may not produce HBeAg, potentially complicating interpretation
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with other HBV serological markers and clinical findings
- ⚠This is a qualitative assay; it does not provide quantitative antibody levels
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between past resolved infection and chronic low-level replication without additional tests
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or pain at the venipuncture site
- ●Slight risk of infection at the needle insertion point (rare)
- ●Fainting or lightheadedness in sensitive individuals during blood draw
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may interfere with test accuracy
- ●Recent administration of immunoglobulin or blood products may cause false results
- ●Patients with immunosuppressive conditions may have altered antibody responses
- ●Very early infection before seroconversion may yield non-reactive results despite active HBV infection
- ●Specimen contamination or improper storage may affect results
Compare With Similar Tests
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| Comparison | Hepatitis Be Antibody (Anti-HBe) Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Anti-HBe test?
Why is the Anti-HBe test performed?
What does a reactive Anti-HBe result mean?
What does a non-reactive Anti-HBe result mean?
Is fasting required for the Anti-HBe test?
What is the cost of the Anti-HBe test at DNA Labs India?
How is the sample collected for the Anti-HBe test?
How long does it take to get Anti-HBe test results?
Can the Anti-HBe test alone confirm Hepatitis B infection?
Is the Anti-HBe test the same as the HBeAg test?
Does Anti-HBe positivity mean I am cured of Hepatitis B?
Is free home sample collection available for the Anti-HBe test?
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