Hepatobiliary and pancreatic manifestations of cystic fibrosis: MR imagingappearances

Citation
Lj. King et al., Hepatobiliary and pancreatic manifestations of cystic fibrosis: MR imagingappearances, RADIOGRAPHI, 20(3), 2000, pp. 767-777
Citations number
35
Categorie Soggetti
Radiology ,Nuclear Medicine & Imaging
Journal title
RADIOGRAPHICS
ISSN journal
02715333 → ACNP
Volume
20
Issue
3
Year of publication
2000
Pages
767 - 777
Database
ISI
SICI code
0271-5333(200005/06)20:3<767:HAPMOC>2.0.ZU;2-9
Abstract
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR cholangiopancreatography are useful, noninvasive techniques for the assessment of pancreatic and hepatobiliary complications in cystic fibrosis. Abnormalities of the pancreas in cystic f ibrosis are typically characterized by fat deposition, which has increased signal intensity on T1-weighted MR images, and pancreatic fibrosis, which h as low signal intensity on both T1- and T2-weighted images. Pancreatic cyst s are a relatively common finding; these cysts are typically quite small bu t are well demonstrated at MR imaging and MR cholangiopancreatography. Panc reatic duct abnormalities are also occasionally seen. Hepatic manifestation s range from hepatomegaly and diffuse fatty infiltration to severe cirrhosi s with fibrotic change, regenerative nodules, and portal hypertension. Sple nomegaly is often characterized by siderotic nodules that manifest as multi ple focal areas of abnormal low signal intensity within the spleen. Biliary manifestations include cholelithiasis, stricturization, and narrowing or d ilatation of intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts. Gallbladder abnormalities including microgallbladder are also readily demonstrated. MR cholangiopancr eatography can be used to help determine the presence and severity of bilia ry complications without resorting to more invasive procedures and, in conj unction with MR imaging, may prove useful in the assessment of patients wit h cystic fibrosis who present with abdominal symptoms that suggest hepatobi liary involvement.