What can be inferred if a technologist reports no monoclonal bands after electrophoresis but requests a urine sample?

When a technologist reports no monoclonal bands after electrophoresis but requests a urine sample, it can be inferred that further investigation is necessary to assess for potential monoclonal proteins. Monoclonal bands, which are indicative of conditions such as multiple myeloma or other plasma cell dyscrasias, might not be detectable in serum but could still be present in urine, especially in cases where light chains are secreted. By requesting a urine sample, the technologist is aiming to perform a urine electrophoresis or similar test to detect any monoclonal proteins, specifically light chains, that may not have appeared in the serum analysis. This additional testing helps provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s condition and ensures that any existing monoclonal protein issues are not overlooked.