Diagnostic value of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in cholestatic jaundice

The aim of the studyTo evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in patients with cholestatic jaundice.Patients and methodsClinical, laboratory and investigational data were evaluated from 50 patients with cholestastic jaundice. MRCP findings were compared with ERCP or operative findings and appropriate clinical endpoints.ResultsThe ERCP or operative findings and appropriate clinical endpoints revealed 23 patients with intra or extra hepatic biliary dilatation and 27 patients without intra or extra hepatic biliary dilatation. As regards the 23 patients with biliary dilatation, biliary dilatation was evident in 19 patients by U/S versus 23 patients by MRCP. ERCP was successful in 20 patients (87%) and was not done in three patients (13%). In cases of obstructive jaundice the sensitivity of MRCP was 100% versus 86% in choledocholithiasis and malignant detection, respectively p value <0.05.ConclusionMRCP is highly sensitive and specific for biliary dilatation and avoids the need for invasive imaging in most patients with cholestasis. MRCP permits reservation of ERCP to patients with a high probability of therapeutic intervention.