What is "Big Three Yang"?
Disease description:
I went for a medical checkup this week and was found to have "Big Three Positive" (a term used in Chinese for a specific pattern of hepatitis B surface antigen, e antigen, and core antibody results). I was completely stunned and would like to know, what exactly does "Big Three Positive" mean?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
"Big Three Positive" refers to a condition following hepatitis B virus infection, medically termed "positive for HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBcAb" or "Big Three Positive of hepatitis B." It indicates that three markers are positive in blood testing:
1. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg): This is the envelope protein of the hepatitis B virus, and its presence indicates infection with hepatitis B virus in the patient's body.
2. Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg): This antigen generally indicates active viral replication and high infectivity.
3. Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb IgM): This is an antibody indicating acute infection, although it can also persist during chronic infection.
Being "Big Three Positive" means the patient is in the active phase of hepatitis B, with active viral replication and potentially high infectivity. However, not all patients who are "Big Three Positive" will develop severe liver disease; some may become chronic carriers without experiencing symptoms. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly.
