Value of MR Pancreatography in the Evaluation of Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis

AIM: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance (MR) pancreatography and to define its role in the imaging work-up of patients with severe chronic pancreatitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-two patients (13 men and 19 women; 15–84 years old; mean age, 48 years) with severe chronic pancreatitis diagnosed using cross-sectional imaging, examination using contrast medium (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, pseudocyst injection) and/or surgical findings underwent MR pancreatography performed using a two-dimensional multi-slice fast spin echo technique. All patients underwent transabdominal pancreatic sonography and computed tomography (CT) was performed in 12 patients. Two observers independently assessed the MR pancreatograms for pancreatic duct dilatation and pancreatic duct abnormalities. Compared to the final diagnosis, the accuracy of MR pancreatography in revealing complications of chronic pancreatitis was calculated and its role in the radiological work-up of patients with chronic pancreatitis evaluated. RESULTS: When compared to the final diagnosis, MR pancreatography showed the following sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy: for filling defects in pancreatic duct, 56–78%, 100% and 87–94%, respectively; for strictures, 75–88%, 92–96% and 88–94%, respectively; and for pseudocysts 100%, 100% and 100%, respectively. Filling defects were correctly diagnosed in all patients when MR pancreatography was interpreted in combination with cross-sectional imaging. Contrast pancreatography was required for the complete evaluation of strictures and communication with pseudocysts. CONCLUSION: MR pancreatography is poorly sensitive but specific in revealing pancreatic duct filling defects and strictures. However, when MR pancreatography is interpreted in combination with sonography and CT, it provides sufficient information to plan therapy in the majority of patients. Varghese, J. C. et al. (2002).Clinical Radiology , 57, 393–401.