Hepatitis Be Antigen (HBeAg) Test
Short Name: HBeAg Test
Also known as: Hepatitis B e antigen test, HBV e antigen test
Hepatitis Be Antigen (HBeAg) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,053. Uses CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. 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 primary purpose of the HBeAg test is to diagnose and monitor Hepatitis B virus infection. It helps determine if the virus is actively replicating, assess infectivity levels, guide treatment decisions, and evaluate response to antiviral therapy. This test is essential for preventing transmission and managing chronic HBV disease.
- Test Code
- 715
- ICD Code
- B18.1
- Price
- ₹1,053
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any medications or recent vaccinations.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to stop bleeding. Avoid heavy lifting for a few hours.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the HBeAg test is to diagnose and monitor Hepatitis B virus infection. It helps determine if the virus is actively replicating, assess infectivity levels, guide treatment decisions, and evaluate response to antiviral therapy. This test is essential for preventing transmission and managing chronic HBV disease.
How to Prepare
- Collect 2 mL (minimum 1 mL) of serum in an SST tube
- Ship samples refrigerated (2-8°C) or frozen (≤ -20°C)
- Ensure proper labeling and documentation
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"HBeAg testing is essential for assessing Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infectivity and monitoring treatment response in chronic HBV patients. Early detection helps prevent transmission and guide therapeutic decisions."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Hemolyzed or contaminated samples
- Improper storage or transport conditions
- Unlabeled or mislabeled specimens
Understanding Your Results
Positive (Reactive)
Indicates active HBV replication, high viral load, and increased infectivity. Common in early acute infection or chronic active hepatitis.
Negative (Non-reactive)
Suggests no active viral replication or low infectivity. May indicate resolved infection, chronic inactive carrier state, or past infection with immunity.
Consult a doctor if results are positive, if you have symptoms of Hepatitis B (e.g., jaundice, fatigue), or if you have been exposed to HBV. Regular monitoring is advised for chronic carriers.
Limitations
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between acute and chronic infection alone
- ⚠Results must be correlated with other HBV markers for full interpretation
- ⚠Not suitable for monitoring anti-HBe seroconversion without additional tests
- ⚠False positives may occur in rare cases due to assay sensitivity
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or pain at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection or excessive bleeding
- ●Dizziness or lightheadedness during blood draw
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may affect accuracy
- ●Recent Hepatitis B vaccination could interfere
- ●Window period in early infection may yield false negatives
- ●Cross-reactivity with other viral infections (rare)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HBeAg test?
Why is the HBeAg test important?
What do positive HBeAg results mean?
What do negative HBeAg results mean?
How is the HBeAg test performed?
Is fasting required for the HBeAg test?
What is the cost of the HBeAg test?
How long does it take to get HBeAg test results?
Can the HBeAg test detect Hepatitis B infection?
What are the symptoms that indicate need for an HBeAg test?
Is the HBeAg test covered by insurance?
How can I book an HBeAg test at DNA Labs India?
Related Tests
Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.