ANA (Anti Nuclear Antibodies Qual.) An antinuclear antibody test is often useful in the evaluation of connective tissue diseases, such as lupus. This blood test detects the presence of certain antibodies made by your immune system. People with lupus typically test positive for antinuclear antibodies. However, a positive ANA blood test isn't specific for lupus. Other conditions that may cause a positive antinuclear antibody test include: Scleroderma; Rheumatoid arthritis; Sjogren's syndrome; Hashimoto's thyroiditis; Autoimmune hepatitis; some viral infections; Certain medications, including methyldopa (Aldomet) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers such as etanercept (Enbrel) and infliximab (Remicade). It isn't clear if these antibodies cause disease or are just a result of disease. If you have a positive antinuclear antibody test, further testing is needed to establish a specific diagnosis.