Test Directory

Test Code
HBEA
Test Name
Hepatitis Be Antigen
CPT Codes
87350
Expected Turnaround Time
1 - 3 days
Clinical Utility

The HBe antigen assay, in conjunction with other serological and clinical information, can be used for the determination and management of chronic hepatitis B infection. This assay should not be used for the diagnosis of acute Hepatitis B infection.

Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Serum

Alternate Specimen Type: Plasma

Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Alternate Collection Container: Lavender Top (EDTA)

Desired Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL

Collection Instructions
  1. Collect a gold top, serum separator tube via venipuncture.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1. Separate serum or plasma from cells.
  2. Transfer 1.5 mL of serum to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).
Patient Preparation

This test may exhibit interference when sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin (also termed as vitamin B7 or B8, vitamin H, or coenzyme R). It is recommended to ask all patients who may be indicated for this test about biotin supplementation. Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

 7 days

Refrigerated

7 days

Frozen

1 year

Freeze/Thaw Cycles

 Stable x3

Causes for Rejection
  • Non-EDTA plasma specimen
  • Heat-inactivated specimens
  • Cord blood
  • Cadaver specimens or body fluids other than serum or EDTA plasma
Methodology
Immunochemiluminometric Assay (Icma)
Reference Intervals

See patient report.

Limitations

Assay performance characteristics have not been established for testing of children less than 17 years of age or pregnant women or in populations of immunocompromised or immunosuppressed patients.

This assay has not been licensed for the screening of blood, plasma, and tissue donors.

Alternate Names
  • HBeAg
  • HBV
  • hepatitis B
  • hepatitis B e-antigen
Reference Lab
Labcorp Of America Holdings
Testing Schedule
Routine, Monday - Saturday