Understanding the Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen and Antibody blood test

The Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen and Antibody blood test measures two closely related markers that provide insight into how active the Hepatitis B virus is within the body. These markers are used to assess viral replication, infectivity, and disease phase in individuals with current or past Hepatitis B infection.

The Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen is produced when the virus is actively replicating. Its presence usually indicates higher levels of viral activity and increased potential for transmission.
The Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antibody develops when viral replication decreases, often indicating lower infectivity and a more inactive phase of infection.

Together, these markers are crucial for understanding the natural course of Hepatitis B infection and guiding clinical monitoring and management.

When testing for Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen and Antibody is clinically important

This test is recommended for individuals with confirmed Hepatitis B infection to determine how active the virus is and how likely it is to be transmitted. It is also used to monitor changes in infection status over time.

Hepatitis B can move through different phases, from highly active to inactive carrier states. Blood testing is essential to identify these phases accurately, as symptoms alone are often unreliable.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Have confirmed Hepatitis B infection
• Need assessment of viral replication activity
• Are undergoing monitoring of chronic Hepatitis B
• Have abnormal or changing liver function tests
• Require infectivity assessment for public health or pregnancy
• Are being evaluated for treatment or specialist referral
• Need clarification of disease phase

Benefits of the Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen and Antibody test

• Assesses viral replication activity
  Helps determine whether the virus is actively multiplying.
• Provides insight into infectivity risk
  Indicates likelihood of transmission to others.
• Supports accurate staging of Hepatitis B
  Differentiates active from inactive phases.
• Guides clinical monitoring decisions
  Helps determine follow-up frequency and care needs.
• Assists treatment planning
  Useful when evaluating need for antiviral therapy.
• Monitors disease progression over time
  Detects changes in viral behaviour.
• Simple blood test with no preparation required
  No fasting or lifestyle changes needed.
• Essential for comprehensive Hepatitis B assessment
  Complements other Hepatitis B markers.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time convenient for you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options provide the same laboratory accuracy and clinical reliability.

Understanding your Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen and Antibody results

Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen positive

A positive Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antigen result indicates active viral replication and higher infectivity.

Typical UK laboratory reporting:

• Positive / Reactive

This result is commonly associated with higher viral load and active disease.

Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antibody positive

A positive Hepatitis B ‘e’ Antibody result indicates reduced viral replication and lower infectivity.

Typical UK laboratory reporting:

• Positive / Reactive

This often reflects a more inactive or controlled phase of infection.

Both markers negative

If both markers are negative, interpretation depends on other Hepatitis B tests. Further investigation is usually required.

Both markers positive (rare)

This can occur during transitional phases of infection and requires clinical correlation.