A urine test, also called urinalysis, uses a urine sample to diagnose or monitor diseases. In patients with diabetes, urine tests may be used to assess kidney function, estimate glucose levels and detect complications such as kidney disease, infections, diabetic ketoacidosis and cardiovascular conditions. The early detection of complications may prevent or delay the onset of more serious conditions.

Urine tests involve normal urination, and patients usually experience no discomfort. Most tests require one urine sample. Other tests collect urine over a 24-hour period, overnight or during a specific period, such as four hours. For most urine tests, there is little or no preparation and people can immediately return to their usual daily activities afterward.

Different urine tests may require different methods of analysis. Urinalysis may include:

• Visual examination
• Test strip examination
• Microscopic examination
• Culture