ObjectiveTo evaluate the relationship between hepatitis B virus (HBV) preS1 antigen and the virus replication index human hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and liver function. MethodsA total of 310 cases of serum samples from patients with chronic HBV treated in our hospital between May and July 2012 were examined and studied. HBV preS1 antigen was detected by ELISA; HBeAg was detected by the Architect i2000 system; and alanine transaminase (ALT) was detected by kinetic method. ResultsThe detection rate of HBV preS1 antigen was higher in HBeAg positive group. HBV preS1 antigen was correlated with HBeAg which was an index of virus replication. HBV preS1 antigen was correlated with ALT levels. ConclusionThe levels of HBV preS1 antigen may reflect the replication of HBV and the reactiveness condition of chronic hepatitis.