Question

What exactly is an MRCP test? What are they looking for?

Answer 1

Hint: This test is non-invasive so there is no need for any kind of surgery. This is generally a low-risk and radiation-free test to look for abnormalities in ducts like bile and pancreatic duct and various organs such as liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

Complete answer:
The MRCP stands for Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography where cholangio means bile vessel, pancreato means pancreas, and graphy means image. This test is a specialized MRI examination or technique that evaluates the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems, including the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and pancreatic duct in our body. In the MRCP test, the hydrogen atoms present in the molecules of water in our body are excited by the use of radiofrequency waves directed at the body. The entire process is done under a strong magnetic field. The result images received after the test are reviewed by a radiologist.
The MRCP test is looking for the abnormalities like blockages or obstructions caused by gallstones, presence of stones in the bile duct.
The appearance of swelling or inflammation, presence of tumor or mass, and also
infections such as cholangitis or infection of the bile duct.

Additional Information:
-MRCP uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce detailed pictures of the bile and the pancreatic ducts and organs.
-The MRCP test helps in determining the cause of jaundice, pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas, liver disease, or upper abdominal pain.
-MRI scans should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy unless medically necessary.
-The MRCP test can also be done to diagnose the cause of pancreatitis or unexplained abdominal pain.
-Time taken for the MRCP test is twice the duration taken for the normal MRI scan. It means 10 minutes for the MRCP imaging and about 30 minutes for abdominal imaging.
-After the test is done the report is prepared by the radiologist and is sent to the health provider who has suggested the test.
-Then the health provider contacts the patient or the attendant to discuss the results and any follow-up care or treatment plans.

Note:
-The MRCP test is a specialized MRI technique to evaluate the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems of the patient.
-The MRCP test is a noninvasive medical scanning method that uses radio waves and a magnetic field.
-The MRCP test is also used to see pancreatic cysts and blockages in the ducts.