The HBeAb (Hepatitis B e Antibody) test is a blood test used to detect the presence of antibodies against the Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), a protein produced by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) during active infection. The presence of HBeAb usually indicates that the body has started developing an immune response against the virus and may suggest reduced viral activity or a lower level of infectivity compared to active viral replication.
This test is commonly recommended when a person is being evaluated for Hepatitis B infection, undergoing monitoring for chronic Hepatitis B, or when a doctor needs to assess the stage and progression of the infection. It helps determine how the body is responding to the virus, monitor changes in viral activity, assess infectivity status, and support management of chronic liver disease related to Hepatitis B. The HBeAb test is often performed along with other Hepatitis B markers such as HBsAg, HBeAg, Anti-HBs, and HBV viral load testing to provide a complete evaluation of Hepatitis B infection status and guide appropriate treatment decisions.
