Diffusion-weighted MRI with MRCP to detect tumor-related biliary blockages

The Role of Non-invasive Diffusion-weighted Imaging With MRCP in the Diagnosis of Neoplastic Biliary Obstruction

Observational The General Authority for Teaching Hospitals and Institutes · NCT07108725

This study will try diffusion-weighted MRI with MRCP to see if it can tell tumor-related biliary blockages from benign causes in adults with suspected biliary obstruction.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe General Authority for Teaching Hospitals and Institutes Research network
Locations1 site (Cairo)
Trial IDNCT07108725 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study uses diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) combined with MRCP as a non-invasive approach to differentiate malignant from benign biliary obstructions. Adults with clinically suspected biliary obstruction who are scheduled for MRCP and subsequent ERCP or biopsy will undergo DW-MRI and review of prior ultrasound or CT. Diagnostic performance of DW-MRI will be compared to the gold standards of ERCP findings and histopathology, with follow-up verification when available. Results will be analyzed to report sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy for detecting neoplastic biliary obstruction.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (≥18) with suspected biliary obstruction who are scheduled for MRCP and planned to undergo ERCP or biopsy and who have had prior ultrasound or CT.

Not a fit: Patients with MRI contraindications, prior major biliary surgery or stent placement, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could allow faster, non-invasive diagnosis and reduce the need for some invasive ERCP procedures or biopsies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising but not definitive results for DW-MRI in distinguishing malignant from benign biliary strictures, so additional confirmation against ERCP and histology is warranted.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients (≥18 years) with clinically suspected biliary obstruction (e.g., jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, cholestasis).
* Patients who are scheduled for magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and have undergone conventional imaging \[ultrasound or computed tomography (CT)\].
* Patients who will undergo further invasive procedures, e.g., endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), biopsy.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (e.g., pacemakers, metal implants).
* Patients who have previously undergone major biliary surgery or stent placement.
* Pregnant or lactating women.

Where this trial is running

Cairo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Non-invasive Diffusion-weighted ImagingMagnetic Resonance CholangiopancreatographyDiagnosisNeoplastic Biliary Obstruction
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.