Team: Ultrasound Avengers / Halo Heroes

Base article: Sebastian A, van der Geest KSM, Tomelleri A, Macchioni P, Klinowski G, Salvarani C, Prieto-Peña D, Conticini E, Khurshid M, Dagna L, Brouwer E, Dasgupta B. Development of a diagnostic prediction model for giant cell arteritis by sequential application of Southend Giant Cell Arteritis Probability Score and ultrasonography: a prospective multicentre study. Lancet Rheumatol. 2024 May;6(5):e291-e299. doi: 10.1016/S2665-9913(24)00027-4. Epub 2024 Mar 27. PMID: 38554720.

Authors: Medical College of Wisconsin Fellowship Program

1. Sabahat Usmani, MD, first-year rheumatology fellow, Medical College of Wisconsin
2. Fatima Hassan, MD, first-year rheumatology fellow, Medical College of Wisconsin
3. Mahum Mirza, MD, second-year rheumatology fellow, Medical College of Wisconsin
4. Bonit Gill, MD, second-year rheumatology fellow, Medical College of Wisconsin
5. Micheal Putman, MD, Rheumatology Fellowship Program Director, Medical College of Wisconsin

Team Overview: 

The HAS-GCA Score team is a formidable force in the RheumMadness tournament. This “dynamic duo” combining the Southend Giant Cell Arteritis Probability Score (SGCAPS) with the halo count using ultrasonography forms a diagnostic powerhouse, pairing clinical expertise with high-resolution imaging. Together, they create a streamlined, evidence-based approach to diagnosing GCA, offering significant advantages over traditional methods.

SGCAPS, the seasoned veteran, excels in stratifying patients into risk categories based on clinical features, laboratory findings, and imaging results. However, subtle cases of GCA can sometimes pose a challenge for this tool. Enter ultrasonography: the rising star in diagnostic imaging. With its ability to identify vascular abnormalities such as the hallmark “halo sign,” ultrasonography can detect even the most elusive signs of GCA, improving diagnostic accuracy. By combining these two methods, the team enhances the reliability of diagnosis while reducing unnecessary reliance on invasive temporal artery biopsies (TABs), which can be both time-consuming and uncomfortable for patients.

Despite their impressive strengths, the HAS-GCA Score team is not without its limitations. One major concern is the reliance on ultrasound expertise, which may not be available in all clinical settings, particularly in resource-limited environments. Additionally, the performance of these diagnostic tools may vary depending on the patient population or healthcare system. Nonetheless, their innovative approach holds great promise. With precision and synergy, the HAS-GCA Score team has the potential to revolutionize GCA diagnostics and improve patient outcomes, making them a top contender in the RheumMadness tournament.

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