Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
ERCP
Description
"Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography" (ERCP) procedure combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to examine your bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. It’s commonly used when symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained digestive issues are present. A thin scope is inserted through the mouth, and contrast dye highlights blockages, stones, or inflammation. Doctors can perform treatments during the same procedure. ERCP offers both diagnosis and immediate intervention, helping manage complex gastrointestinal conditions and reduce the need for multiple invasive tests.
Test Category
GI Tract Function
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
No biological sample is needed for this test.
Units
Not Applicable
Procedure Category
Insert, Inject, Scan
Test Group
Imaging Scans Group, Endoscopic Procedure Group
Test Group Description
Imaging Scans Group: This group includes a variety of diagnostic imaging techniques used to visualize internal structures and organs in the body. These techniques may include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine scans. Endoscopic Procedure Group: This group encompasses a range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light at its tip. These procedures allow healthcare providers to visualize internal organs and tissues, such as the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and urinary tract.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Bile duct stones (Hardened deposits in the bile ducts)
Biliary strictures (Narrowing of the bile ducts)
Biliary tract obstruction (Blockage in the bile ducts)
Biliary tumors
Cholangitis (Inflammation of the bile ducts)
Pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic duct obstruction (Blockage in the pancreatic duct)
Pancreatic pseudocysts (Fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas)
Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the pancreas)
Pancreatic tumors
Key Reasons For Testing
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedure: ERCP is a minimally invasive test for bile duct, pancreatic, and gallbladder disorders.
Visualization: Directly visualizes ducts to detect stones, strictures, or tumors.
Stone Removal: Extracts bile or gallstones to prevent complications.
Stricture Dilatation: Expands narrowed ducts using stents or balloons.
Pancreatic Interventions: Addresses pancreatitis or ductal issues via stenting or stone removal.
Biopsy: Samples tissue for diagnosing cancers or inflammation.
Tumor Relief: Treats obstructions caused by biliary or pancreatic tumors.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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