Hepatitis B Virus envelope Antibody (HBe Ab)
Hepatitis B Virus envelope Antibody (HBe Ab)
Hepatitis B is a long-lasting liver infection that, if not treated, can lead to life-threatening liver problems like cirrhosis and cancer. Hepatitis B virus envelope antibody (HBeAb) is a blood marker that indicates a positive change in the patient's infection status. Its presence suggests long-term virus clearance during antiviral therapy. Unlike the HBe antigen, the HBe antibody is a sign of lower virus replication and infectivity. However, some patients, despite having them in their sera, may still develop liver-related issues due to disease remission.
The Hepatitis B virus envelope antibody test is part of the hepatitis B diagnostic panel, checking for antibodies against the hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg) in the patient's blood. Doctors may use this test to understand the virus replication status while evaluating the risk of early liver complications. This helps them choose the best treatment options for optimal patient management. Â Â
The test is performed concurrently with HBeAg testing to understand the patient's condition better.
What is HBe Antibody Testing Used For?
This test is performed
To find out the stage of liver disease in HBV-infected patients and help decide on treatment
To keep track of how contagious HBV carriers are
To predict the effect of HBV infection over a long period
To see how effective antiviral treatment is for people with long-term HBV infection by measuring the improvement in liver disease
Symptoms of chronic hepatitis B infection
Most patients with chronic Hepatitis B lack symptoms, although some may develop signs and symptoms depending on the severity of liver injury. Symptoms may include
Jaundice
Excessive tiredness
Enlarged spleen
Discomfort in the stomach
Swelling in the legs and feet
Poor brain function
Liver cancer
Preparation for Test
No special preparation is required to take the HBe antibody test. However, avoid taking biotin supplements 48 hours prior.
Interpretation of Test Results
The results of the HBe antibody test are interpreted as follows:
Positive result
This report suggests the presence of detectable HBe antibodies in the patient's serum, signifying the resolution of illness, although the HBV carrier state may still persist.
In a small percentage of chronic hepatitis B patients, a positive HBe antibody may indicate active viral replication if the sample is positive for viral DNA.
Negative result
This result indicates the absence of the HBe antibody in the sample, suggesting an early HBV infection before peaking of viral DNA.
FAQs
What factors can affect the levels of HBe Antibody?
Several factors can influence HBe antibody levels, including:
•       the stage of Hepatitis B infection
•       the strength of the host immune response
•       the use of antiviral medications
How often do you have to monitor for hepatitis B?
As per American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) guidelines, if you are chronically infected with hepatitis B  and on treatment, you must undergo liver tests every 12 weeks and check for HBV DNA levels every 12 to 24 weeks.
Your HBe Ag and antiHBe will also be monitored every 24 weeks if you are positive for HBeAg during the screening of hepatitis B.
3. Can I infect people with hepatitis B if I test positive for HBe Antibody?
If you are HBe Antibody positive, you are less likely to spread hepatitis B when compared to being HBeAg positive. However, the infection can still be transmitted when you engage in behaviors that entail contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, such as unprotected sex or needle sharing.
Is fasting required before taking the blood sample for the HBe Antibody test?
No, fasting is not required to take this test.
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