The Role of Multidetector Row Computed Tomography in Biliary Tract Malignancy

Abstract

Early diagnosis of biliary tract tumors is important in accurate staging, to choose the best possible treatment and improve their prognosis. Multidetector row Computed Tomography is an ideal method to evaluate patients with suspected biliary tract obstruction and thereby biliary tract malignancy. Aims and Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of Multidetector row Computed Tomography (MDCT) in evaluation of level of obstruction and to study the imaging features of various causes of biliary tract malignancy. Material and Method: MDCT of 40 patients with clinically suspicion of biliary tract obstruction were prospectively reviewed and only malignant causes were included in the study. Final diagnosis was based on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, surgical and histopathological diagnosis. The MDCT diagnosis and final diagnosis was compared for level and imaging features of malignant lesions. Results: The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and diagnostic accuracy of MDCT in determining the level of malignant obstruction is 100%, 83.33%, 97.77%, 100%, 98%, and cause of malignant obstruction is 97.73%, 83.33%, 97.72%, 83.33%, 96%. MDCT with its high sensitivity and specificity values plays an essential role in the diagnosis of malignant tumors of biliary tract and for the evaluation of therapeutic options. Conclusion: MDCT has a vital role to play in biliary tract malignancy with its high degree of accuracy in establishing the level of obstruction and in defining the imaging features of the malignant lesions.