4 patients developed an erythema-multiforme-like reaction following acute contact dermatitis from 2 different bufexamac-containing topical preparations. Histologically, the lesions did not show changes that were typical of erythema multiforme. Patch testing gave positive reactions to bufexamac at 1, 2, 3 and 4 days. The histological picture of 2 positive test reactions was suggestive of a drug reaction in the 1st, and of an acute eczematous reaction in the 2nd, case. A systemic allergic reaction with spread of lesions could have been involved, following percutaneous absorption of the allergen.