What does "two pairs and a half" of hepatitis B mean?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the term "two pairs and a half" for hepatitis B refers to the hepatitis B "two pairs and a half" test. This test is primarily used to detect hepatitis B virus-related antigens and antibodies in the blood. For patients with abnormal "two pairs and a half" test results, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital, undergo further examinations including liver function tests, complete blood count, and urinalysis, to clarify their condition and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance.

Generally, the term "two pairs and a half" (two pairs and a half test) refers to the hepatitis B antigen and antibody test. This test is primarily used to detect hepatitis B virus-related antigens and antibodies in the blood. The specific analysis is as follows:

The "two pairs and a half" test mainly examines five indicators to determine whether a person has been infected with the hepatitis B virus and assesses the infection status. These five indicators are: hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B virus surface antibody (anti-HBs), hepatitis B virus e antigen (HBeAg), hepatitis B virus e antibody (anti-HBe), and hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBc). Testing these five indicators can provide a preliminary assessment of whether a person has been infected with hepatitis B virus, as well as information regarding the activity and transmissibility of the infection.

If a person's "two pairs and a half" test results are abnormal, it is recommended that they seek timely medical consultation at a hospital to complete additional tests such as liver function tests, complete blood count, and urinalysis, to better understand their condition and receive appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance.