ESGAR consensus statement on MR imaging in primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic liver disease requiring accurate imaging for diagnosis and management.
• Standardized MR imaging protocols and reporting are essential for consistent evaluation of PSC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus statement and recommendations for MR imaging in patients with PSC.
• To develop a structured reporting template for MR imaging in PSC.

Main Methods:

• A multinational panel of experts from the European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology (ESGAR) was convened.
• A modified Delphi process was used to draft and reach consensus on 55 statements regarding MR imaging in PSC.
• Agreement levels were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale, with evidence levels reported according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine.

Main Results:

• The expert panel achieved complete agreement on 23 statements (41.8%) and fair agreement on 16 statements (29.1%).
• Statements with complete agreement formed the basis for a structured reporting template.
• The panel identified key MR imaging features and optimal protocols for PSC evaluation.

Conclusions:

• The developed consensus statement and recommendations guide the appropriate use of MR imaging in PSC patients.
• A structured reporting template is provided to improve the quality of care and interdisciplinary communication in PSC management.