MRI vs MRCP difference?

[4792t]

Hi, can anyone out there explain the difference between an MRI and MRCP?

many thanks

[AyrshireK]

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to get detailed pictures of body organs. The MRI uses three-dimensional images of an organ taken from different angles to help the doctor get an idea about the organ structure, its blood supply, and specific conditions, such as scarring or swelling over the organ. It can even show an area of dead tissues. A type of MRI called contrast MRI uses a special dye (gadolinium) to enhance the image quality of the organs to be assessed.

A magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a subtype of an MRI scan. It takes detailed pictures of the organs, especially the pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. The lesions of the ducts of the hepatobiliary tree (a network of tube-like channels in the liver and gallbladder) and pancreas are better seen with MRCP compared to an MRI. An MRCP is often a comparable non-invasive option to an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or ERCP (an invasive procedure where a scope or camera is inserted into the hepatobiliary tree and the pancreatic ducts).

The doctor may use MRCP exams in the following conditions:

To examine the liver, gallbladder, hepatobiliary tree, pancreatic duct, and pancreas for growths, stones, swelling, infection, or cancers

Locating gallstones hiding in the ducts around the gallbladder

Obstructive jaundice

Evaluation of the patients with pancreatitis

Unexplained abdominal pain

Compared to MRI, MRCP is an advanced investigation and may not be available at all hospitals.

[4792t in reply to AyrshireK]

thank you so much for your quick and detailed reply 🙏