MR imaging of pancreatic disorders

Top Magn Reson Imaging. 1996 Oct;8(5):265-89.

Abstract

Newer magnetic resonance imaging techniques offer greater precision in diagnosing various pancreatic disorders, primarily through faster image acquisitions. These include breath-hold rapid T1-weighted images, fast spin-echo sequences, and angiographic techniques. Altered signal intensity on fat-saturated T1-weighted images is one of the principal signs of pancreatic disease, and may affect the gland diffusely with chronic pancreatitis or focally with carcinoma. T2-weighted sequences primarily characterize peripancreatic fluid, ductal obstruction, carcinoma, or cystic or mucinous tumors. Heavily T2-weighted cholangiographic reconstructions are important to evaluate ductal obstructions. Dynamic gadolinium-enhanced images improve the accuracy for identifying and characterizing islet-cell tumors and pancreatic adenocarcinomas.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnosis
  • Adenoma, Islet Cell / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / diagnosis
  • Pancreas / pathology*
  • Pancreas Transplantation / pathology
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Pancreatitis / diagnosis*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed