Clinical applications of MR cholangiopancreatography.
BACKGROUND
We review the clinical applications of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and illustrate them with clinical examples.


METHODS
A literature search was performed in MedLine using the keywords "MR cholangiopancreatography" and "MRCP". The relevant articles were reviewed. The radiology information system was searched for MRCP examinations performed from July 1999 to December 2002. A surgical database of resected cases was also referenced. Illustrative cases were chosen in consultation with surgical authors to show the clinical applications of MRCP.


RESULTS
MRCP is useful for assessment of choledocholithiasis, choledochal cysts, pancreas divisum, primary sclerosing cholangitis, pancreatitis and anatomical variation of the biliary ducts. When complemented with dynamic gadolinium-enhanced studies, MRCP is useful for assessment of ductal cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic and gall bladder neoplasms. Illustrative cases are provided.


CONCLUSIONS
MRCP is an important modality for the clinical assessment of biliary and pancreatic disorders.
Thng
C H
CH
Department of Diagnostic Imaging, National Cancer Centre, Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore 169610.
Tan
A G
AG
Chung
Y F
YF
Chow
P K
PK
Ooi
L L
LL
D001650:Bile Duct Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D001653:Bile Ducts, Intrahepatic; D018281:Cholangiocarcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002760:Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / Q000379:methods*; D003287:Contrast Media; D005260:Female; D005682:Gadolinium; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D003287:Contrast Media; D005682:Gadolinium