Anti-HBe

Anti-HBe are one of the antibodies produced by the body when it defends itself against hepatitis B. These antibodies are directed against the “soluble” or extractable part of the “core” antigen of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). An anti-HBe test that is reactive (positive) while HBeAg levels have dropped below the detection threshold indicates the onset of recovery in an individual with hepatitis B.

An anti-HBe test that is non-reactive (negative) may mean the infection is very recent and viral replication has not yet peaked.