Giant cell arteritis — SCE Rheumatology MCQ
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Correct answer: C — A non-compressible hypoechoic halo around the arterial lumen
The ultrasound halo is homogeneous hypoechoic mural thickening that is non-compressible and is the key finding supporting GCA. Its sensitivity falls after glucocorticoids begin, so rapid access and experienced acquisition and interpretation matter.
Reference: BSR guideline on diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis (Published January 2020; revision in development): https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article/59/3/e1/5714024; EULAR imaging recommendations in large-vessel vasculitis — 2023 update (Published 2024): https://ard.bmj.com/content/83/6/741