How is primary sclerosing cholangitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis is by imaging of the bile duct, usually in the setting of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP, endoscopy of the bile duct and pancreas). Another option is magnetic resonance cholangiopacreaticography (MRCP), where magnetic resonance imaging is used to visualise the biliary tract.
Other tests often done are a full blood count, liver enzymes, bilirubin levels (usually grossly elevated), renal function, electrolytes. Fecal fat determination is occasionally ordered when the symptoms of malabsorption are prominent. |
