Talar Callosity in Children—What, Who, Why?

The talar callosity is a relatively uncommon ankle lump in children. Although asymptomatic and entirely “benign,” it is a major cause of parental concern. Clinically, the talar callosity refers to an area of hyperkeratotic skin on the anterolateral aspect of the ankle. Talar callosities are typically 2.0 to 2.5 cm in diameter, may be unilateral or bilateral, and are usually a shade darker than the surrounding skin (Figure 1). They can be associated with smaller callosities over the ipsilateral lateral malleolus, fifth metatarsal base or head, or other bony prominence in the foot.

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• Figure 1 

  A talar callosity.