ABSTRACT
Bifonazole is an imidazole-type antifungal drug that kills fungi and yeasts by interfering with their cell membranes. It is used for the topical treatment of various superficial fungal infections, including tinea pedis. In a review of imidazoles used as antimycotic agents up to 1994, one positive patch test to bifonazole is mentioned, but the literature source was specified. In Japan, in the period 1984 to 1994, 3049 outpatients were patch tested for suspected contact dermatitis and 218 of these with topical antifungal preparations. Thirty-five were allergic to imidazoles, including bifonazole in one individual. In 60% of the cases, there were cross-reactions between imidazoles. A patient sensitized to tioconazole had a cross-reaction to bifonazole 2% pet. Cross-reactions are very unlikely between bifonazole and other antifungals.
