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Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography Test

Dr.Sreelekha DaruvariLast Updated on 21st January 2022

An MRCP scan is a specialised MRI exam used to produce detailed images of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems like the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, pancreas, and pancreatic duct. This MRI scan is a non-invasive test that uses radiofrequency pulses and a powerful magnetic field to produce detailed images of the body's internal organs. MRCP does not use any x-ray radiations for imagery.

What is the MRCP test used for?What is included in the MRCP test?Procedure for MRCP test How to prepare for the MRCP test?What types of infection can the MRCP test detect?How much does the MRCP test cost?What do abnormal MRCP test results indicate?Is the MRCP test definitive?Why book the MRCP test?Frequently asked questions

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What is the MRCP test used for?

The MRCP test produces images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and pancreatic duct. This non-invasive test is used to look for abnormalities in the organs like:

Gallstones causing blockages or obstructions.
Inflammation in the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems.
Stones in the bile duct.
Abnormal growth or tumours.
Infection of the bile duct or other organs.

The doctor may recommend an MRCP test to evaluate persistent abdominal pain or the cause of pancreatitis. MRCP is also a non-invasive alternative to evaluate the system when compared to endoscopy and ERCP.

What is included in the MRCP test?

The MRCP scan is used to evaluate the pancreatic and hepatobiliary organs to check for abnormalities. These detailed magnetic resonance images help doctors examine and determine the presence of diseases. This test is conducted by a certified lab technician.

It can detect inflammation, infection, stones, or tumours.
It can help determine the underlying cause for pancreatitis and helps assess scarring, pancreatic function, and secretions.
It can help diagnose unexplained abdominal pain.
It provides a non-invasive alternative to ERCP, which is an invasive procedure for evaluating the bile ducts and/or the pancreatic duct.

Procedure for MRCP test

The MRCP test uses MRI units that produce and receive radio waves which are detected by the machine and take pictures of the organs.

During the scan, you need to change into a hospital gown and lie on your side on the platform that slides into the scanner.
Take off any jewellery, accessories, and all metals to prevent the MRI scanner from overheating.
You will need to lie still while the images are taken so that they are not blurry.
In case the doctor has advised for a contrast dye during the MRCP test, you may be given an injection of the dye through an IV. This will help the organs to be visible more clearly.

Book an MRCP test to check your hepatobiliary system!

How to prepare for the MRCP test?

Before the MRCP test, inform the doctor of any previous operations, metal implants, or other metals in the body like

metal insertions and fragments – dental fillings, bridges, plates for injury
pacemakers or an implantable defibrillator
cochlear implants
surgical clips, pins, or plates

You are advised to fast 4-8 hours before the MRCP test. Please inform your doctor if you are diabetic or pregnant. You can take your medication as usual before the test based on the doctor’s advice.

Things to consider after the MRCP test is complete

The MRCP test is painless and safe and the results should come in within 24 – 48 hours. Please consult a medical professional to interpret the test results.

What types of infection can the MRCP test detect?

It can detect inflammation, infection, stones, or tumours.
It can help determine the underlying cause for pancreatitis and helps assess long-term scarring, healthy pancreatic function, and secretions.
It can help diagnose unexplained abdominal pain.
It provides a non-invasive alternative to ERCP, which is an invasive procedure for evaluating the bile ducts and/or the pancreatic duct.

The MRCP test can also detect:

Congenital anomalies of hepatic and cystic ducts.
Biliary system trauma or complications from surgery.
Cystic lesions from pancreatitis.
Biliary strictures.

How much does the MRCP test cost?*

The MRCP test is an extensive scan to evaluate your pancreatic and hepatobiliary organs. The cost of the MRCP can vary between ₹3220 and ₹5800.

*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results for the MRCP test?

You can expect to get the results for the MRCP test within 24 to 48 hours after the scan is done. There may be a change in time for receiving the test results based on the city, clinic etc.

What do abnormal MRCP test results indicate?

The MRCP test produces images of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and pancreatic duct. This non-invasive test is used to look for abnormalities in the organs like:

Gallstones causing blockages or obstructions.
Inflammation in the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems.
Stones in the bile duct.
Abnormal growth or tumours.
Infection of the bile duct or other organs.

The doctor may recommend an MRCP test to evaluate persistent abdominal pain or determine the cause of pancreatitis.

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.

Book an MRCP test to check your pancreatic system's functioning!

Is the MRCP test definitive?

The MRCP test is not definitive but can indicate the functioning of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and pancreatic duct. This test can help:

detect inflammation, infection, stones, or tumours.
determine the underlying cause for pancreatitis and helps assess long-term scarring, and pancreatic function
evaluate unexplained abdominal pain.
provide a non-invasive alternative to ERCP, which is an invasive procedure for evaluating the bile ducts and/or the pancreatic duct.

How to read the MRCP report?

Usually, only central intrahepatic bile ducts are seen on MRCP up to 3 mm in diameter. Extrahepatic bile ducts should normally be 7 mm in diameter.

Those who have had surgery for cholecystectomy will experience mild biliary dilatation with the bile duct measuring up to 10 mm in diameter.

The MRCP test can detect:

Congenital anomalies of hepatic and cystic ducts
Biliary system trauma or complications from surgery
Cystic lesions from pancreatitis
Biliary strictures.

Book an MRCP test to check your pancreatic system's functioning!

Why book the MRCP test?

This test can help:

detect inflammation, infection, stones, or tumours.
determine the underlying cause for pancreatitis and helps assess long-term scarring, and pancreatic function
Help in evaluating unexplained abdominal pain.
provide a non-invasive alternative to ERCP, which is an invasive procedure for evaluating the bile ducts and/or the pancreatic duct.

The MRCP test can also detect:

Congenital anomalies of hepatic and cystic ducts.
Biliary system trauma or complications from surgery.
Cystic lesions from pancreatitis.
Biliary strictures.

Are there any risks involved with the MRCP test?

The MRCP test is painless and doesn’t have any side effects. If the scan required a contrast dye, you may feel a little nauseous but it will go away in some time. Before the MRCP test, inform the doctor of any previous operations, metal implants, or other metals in the body. As fasting is involved, keep your doctor informed if you are diabetic or pregnant.

What can affect the results of the MRCP test?

Before the MRCP test, inform the doctor of any previous operations, metal implants, or other metals in the body. Some medical implants and other metal inserts can affect the scanning.

Book an MRCP to check your hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems like the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and pancreatic duct!

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Frequently asked questions | FAQs

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my MRCP test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on the MRCP test?

Usually, you can avail of up to 50% discount on the MRCP test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

How should I prepare for the MRCP test?

Before the MRCP scan, make sure you remove all jewellery and other accessories, including body piercings, glasses, and any other metals. You are advised to fast 4-8 hours before the scan and keep the doctor informed of any prior operations, metal implants, or other metals in the body.

Why do I need an MRCP test?

This test can help:

detect inflammation, infection, stones, or tumours.
determine the underlying cause for pancreatitis and helps assess long-term scarring, healthy pancreatic function, and secretions.
diagnose unexplained abdominal pain.
provide a non-invasive alternative to ERCP, which is an invasive procedure for evaluating the bile ducts and/or the pancreatic duct.

Can I eat before an MRCP test?

Fasting for 4-8 hours before the test is recommended.

Is an MRCP test safe?

Yes, it is safe to get an MRCP test. This scan does not expose you to radiation and there are no known major side effects. However, it is important to keep the doctor informed if you have any medical implants as the test uses a strong magnetic field which can interfere with their functioning

How long does the MRCP test take?

The MRCP test will usually take about 30-90 minutes, depending on the extensive testing. Images of different sections take about 15 minutes or so. You need to lie still when images are being taken.

Is the MRCP test painful?

No, the MRCP scan is painless. However, you may experience some discomfort as you need to stay motionless when the images are being taken.

Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.