Diagnosis: Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

Image courtesy of Jason Klapman, MD, Moffitt Cancer Center

MRCP is a special type of MRI.  It uses computer software that specifically images pancreatic and bile ducts, which are often the site of tumors.  Fluid naturally present in the ducts serves as a contrast substance.  MRCP produces images similar to an ERCP and is an excellent tool for visualizing blockages in the ducts and pancreatic cysts.

MRCP provides a similar picture as ERCP, but without the risks of an invasive ERCP procedure.  MRCP may be used in place of ERCP for diagnostic purposes if therapeutic interventions, such as stent placement to alleviate jaundice, are not required.

MRCP may be used to diagnose an alternative cause of jaundice or elevated liver function such as bile duct stones, tumors in the small bowel near the opening of the bile and pancreatic duct, or a type of pancreatic tumor called intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN).

Image courtesy of Jason Klapman, MD, Moffitt Cancer Center

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