How Is Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography Different From An MRI?

Posted on Mon, 29 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 Answered on

Wed, 22 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : MRCP v/s Abdominal MRI with contrast

My GI doctor has ordered an Abdomen/pelvis MRI with and without contrast.

I came to know that MRCP is also recommended with abdomen MRI in some situations.

I wonder, How MRCP is different from Abdomen MRI?
My understanding is - Abdomen MRI scans and covers all the organs in the abdomen then why MRCP is recommended and when it is recommended? How MRCP is complementary to abdomen MRI?

Thanks for your time and expert advice.

Best Regards

XXXX

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
MRCP only covers liver,GB,pancreas.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a type of MRI examination that provides detailed imaging of of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems and it includes assessment of liver,gallbladder,bile ducts,pancreas and pancreatic duct.

Only MRCP is advised in conditions when clinician has clear indication of involvement of organs in this region.Findings may be indicated by history,clinical findings,blood examination and ultrasound.

You are right,MRI abdomen covers whole abdomen.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar