What is the HBeAb test?

Positive or reactive test results indicate that the antibodies are present in an individual’s blood. Hence, the person is protected from the hepatitis B virus. Individuals who have been vaccinated or have recovered from past hepatitis infections also have positive results for this test. The negative test results indicate the individual has an active hepatitis B infection.

This test helps to identify the current and past infection with the virus. Along with the diagnosis, this test also assists in estimating the severity level of the disease. It also helps to identify if an individual is immune to the disease. If you are born in a country where hepatitis B is standard or in case you have been exposed to the virus recently, you require this test.

During the HBeAb test, a small amount of blood sample is extracted from a vein. Then this sample is sent to the laboratory to identify antibodies in the bloodstream. It determines the type of viral infection and its severity. It also helps to diagnose if the person is in the contagious stage.

HBeAb reactive indicates your body has a high level of antibodies against the hepatitis B virus. You had a hepatitis B infection but have cleared the virus as your immune system has produced antibodies to fight against the disease. Hence, the virus cannot increase to very high levels in the body. It gets cleared in most patients within the first six months of infection.

HBsAg positive indicates you have an active hepatitis B infection and can also spread the virus to others. For this, you must begin the treatment for hepatitis B infection. This treatment regimen includes antiviral medications like tenofovir, lamivudine, and telbivudine. The treatment can help reduce the viral load in the body and reduce liver damage due to the hepatitis B virus.

The human body can cure HBsAg in 4–8 weeks. These people recover from viral infections. This recovery can also be attained using antiviral medications. However, a significant reduction in levels of HBsAg is noticed by drinking three cups of coffee. The median decrease in antigen load due to the use of coffee is 523 IU/ml.

Hepatitis means the inflammation of the liver. Inflammation occurs when body tissue is injured or infected. Inflammation can impact the overall functioning of the liver. Reasons for hepatitis are as follows: excessive alcohol consumption, health conditions associated with liver infection, and medications having a hazardous impact on the liver. This impact on the liver can be acute or chronic. The most common cause includes viral infection.

Acute infections of hepatitis B are short-term infections and do not impact life expectancy. At the same time, chronic infections last longer and can also cause severe impacts on overall health. These can include liver cancer or cirrhosis. According to research, 15%–40% of HBV carriers die due to these complications. The life expectancy of hepatitis B carriers is 71.8 years compared to 76.2 years in non-carriers.

There are three types of hepatitis: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Out of these, hepatitis C infections are more severe and can cause fatal health hazards, including severe liver damage. Of the total individuals infected with hepatitis C, 70% develop chronic liver disease and approximately 20% develop cirrhosis, making it worse compared to other hepatitis infections.

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