Prevalenceand Risk Factors Assessment of Biliary Stones using Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography

Abstract

Biliary stone disease is a common cause of hospitalization and can lead to serious complications. Understanding the demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors contributing to its formation is essential for prevention and management. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, anatomical distribution, and risk factor associations of biliary stones in patients undergoing Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), as well as to evaluate the diagnostic utility of MRCP in detecting stone size and number. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to July 2025, including 139 patients selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Patients clinically suspected of biliary stones underwent MRCP. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data was collected, and risk factors such asbody mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, liver disorders, blood disorders, nicotine use, family history, lifestyle, and dietary habits were analyzed using SPSS. The Chi-square test was applied to assess associations. Biliary stones were detected in 85.6% of participants. The gallbladder was the most affected site (41.7%), followed by the common bile duct (20.1%), combined GB & CBD (17.3%), and hepatic duct (6.5%). Significant associations were observed with female gender (p = 0.021), age group 34–49 years (p = 0.042), obesity (p = 0.040), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.008), nicotine use (p = 0.006), and family history (p = 0.047). No significant associations were found with liver disorders, blood disorders, or rapid weight loss. MRCP proved effective in detecting and mapping both solitary and multiple stones across the biliary system. These findings highlight its clinical value as a non-invasive diagnostic tool and support targeted screening strategies for high-risk groups.