MRCP Test: What is It, Why is It Done, Results

The Magnetic Resonance CholangioPancreatography (MRCP) is a medical scanning method which is safe and non-invasive diagnostic tool. The magnetic field and radiowaves involved in this technique are used to obtain detailed images of the abdominal organs on the computer screen, in this article, get an in-depth knowledge about the MRCP test, situations where it is recommended, the expected test results and side effects if any.

Our gastrointestinal health depicts the health of the rest of our bodies. You will often notice that discomfort related to your GI tract often pulls down your entire body. So, why experience the consequences when you can take the right measures and prioritize your GI health? Get a comprehensive MRCP test done to check your GI health today.

What is the MRCP test?

Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a medical diagnostic tool which uses radio waves, a magnetic field, and a computer to diagnose and evaluate the health conditions of the gall bladder, liver, pancreas, bile ducts, and pancreatic duct for disease. The MRP scan aids in the diagnosis of the disease by constructing a 3D model of the body by combining the obtained images. It is a safe and noninvasive alternative to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).  

Why is the MRCP test done?

The MRP test is recommended by doctors in various situations for the diagnosis of health conditions like:

• Presence of gallstones
• Blockage or narrowing of the pancreatic or bile duct
• Inflammation
• Cancer of the bile duct
• Pancreatic cancer
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis
• Underlying causes of upper abdominal pain, liver disease, pancreatitis, and jaundice.

How to interpret the results of the MRCP test?

The above figure is the scan of an adenocarcinoma present in the duodenum region obtained through the MRCP test. The scans of your MRCP test are visualized and analysed by a radiologist for any abnormalities. The MRCP scan test is a safe diagnostic technique and generally does not have any side effects. In some rare cases, you may experience certain side effects like injection site pain, dizziness, headache and nausea.

Takeaway 

The MRCP test is an important diagnostic and non-invasiv scanning test used for the analysis of various health conditions. Now that you know about the MRCP test, its uses, result, and side effects, you can go for your MRCP test absolutely stress free, if the test is recommended to you by your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does an MRCP test takes?

The MRCP test typically takes approximately 15 minutes. Although you should keep a time frame of 1 hour for the test, in case you have to wait for the doctor and for the preparation of the test as well.

2. Can anyone get the MRCP test done?

Yes, anyone who is recommended for the MRCP test can get it done. However, if you have medical devices like ear implants, metal coils in blood vessels, brain aneurysm clips and older versions of pacemakers or cardiac defibrillators, you must inform your doctor about these medical devices before getting your test done.

3. What organs can be observed in the MRCP test?

The MRCP test is used to observe and analyse abdominal organs like bile ducts, pancreas, kidneys, liver, gallbladder and spleen.

4. How accurate is a MRCP test?

The sensitivity of the MRCP test is as high as 71 - 100%. The accuracy of the test ranges between 89 - 94%.

5. What is the difference between MRCP test and the MRI scan?

The MRCP test is a type of MRI scan that gives more detailed images of the abdominal organs. 

6. What are the advantages of the MRCP and ERCP scans?

The advantages of MRCP scan include:

• It is noninvasive scan and therefore have lower risk of any side effects or complications.
• It is easy and fast process.
• No radiations are involved. Therefore, it is safe technique for pregnant woman and children as well

The advantages of the ERCP scan include 

• Any necessary surgery can be performed at that point of time only.
• It is a less costly process.
• It is a better option for people who are claustrophobic.