Urine examination was practiced in Sumer and Babylonia as early as 4000 BC, and is described in ancient Greek and Sanskrit texts.

For instance, the results of the routine urinalysis can provide information about the functioning of the kidneys and urinary system; suggest the presence of a urinary tract infection (UTI); and screen for possible diabetes or liver disease, among other conditions.

Timed collections are commonly used to measure creatinine, urea, urine protein, hormones and electrolytes.

[11] [12] If the subject is not able to urinate voluntarily, samples can be obtained using a urinary catheter or by inserting a needle through the abdomen and into the bladder (suprapubic aspiration).

[3] In infants and young children, urine can be collected into a bag attached to the genital region, but this is associated with a high risk of contamination.