What is the differential diagnosis for a tailor's bunion (bunionette)?

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Last updated: April 23, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Tailor Bunion

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Bunionette (Tailor's bunion): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the specific location and nature of the condition, which is a bony growth on the outside of the foot, near the base of the little toe.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Hammertoe: A deformity of the toe where the toe is bent at the joint, which can cause discomfort and pain similar to a tailor's bunion.
    • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, which can occur on the outside of the foot and mimic symptoms of a tailor's bunion.
    • Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, often occurring at the base of the toe, which could be confused with a tailor's bunion.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone, which, although rare, can present with similar symptoms of pain and swelling and requires prompt treatment to avoid serious complications.
    • Charcot foot: A condition that affects the nerves and joints in the foot, leading to loss of sensation and structural changes, which can be mistaken for a bunion but requires different management.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Freiberg's disease: A rare condition that affects the metatarsal bones in the foot, causing pain and stiffness, which could be considered in the differential diagnosis of a tailor's bunion.
    • Sesamoiditis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the sesamoid bones, which are located beneath the first metatarsal bone, but can sometimes affect other toes and be confused with a tailor's bunion.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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