Test Code EAG Hepatitis B Virus e Antigen, Serum
Testing Algorithm
For more information see Hepatitis B: Testing Algorithm for Screening, Diagnosis, and Management
Performing Laboratory

Specimen Type
Serum SSTOrdering Guidance
If ordered with HBVQN / Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) DNA Detection and Quantification by Real-Time PCR, Serum; send separate vials.
Necessary Information
Date of collection is required.
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation: For 24 hours before specimen collection, patient should not take multivitamins or dietary supplements (eg, hair, skin, and nail supplements) containing biotin (vitamin B7).
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Collection Container/Tube: Serum gel (red-top tubes are not acceptable)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.7 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Centrifuge blood collection tube per manufacturer's instructions (eg, centrifuge and aliquot within 2 hours of collection for BD Vacutainer tubes).
2. Aliquot serum into plastic vial.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Serum SST | Frozen (preferred) | 90 days |
Refrigerated | 6 days | |
Ambient | 72 hours |
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
CPT Code Information
87350
Clinical Information
Hepatitis B virus e antigen (HBeAg) is found in the early phase of hepatitis B infection soon after hepatitis B virus surface antigen becomes detectable. Serum levels of both antigens rise rapidly during the period of viral replication. The presence of HBeAg correlates with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infectivity, the number of infectious virions, and the presence of HBV core antigen in the infected hepatocytes.
In HBV carriers and patients with chronic hepatitis B, positive HBeAg results usually indicate presence of active HBV replication and high infectivity. A negative HBeAg result indicates very minimal or no HBV replication.
For more information, see the following:
-Hepatitis B: Testing Algorithm for Screening, Diagnosis, and Management
Report Available
1 to 3 daysReject Due To
Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Gross lipemia | Reject |
Gross icterus | Reject |
Heat-inactivated specimen | Reject |
Method Name
Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send 1 of the following: