In this multicentre, between-patient trial the efficacy and tolerability of a cream, containing 0.05% halometasone and 1% triclosan, was compared with those of Nerisona C cream, containing 0.1% diflucortolone valerate and 1% chlorquinaldol, in 183 patients with acute dermatomycoses. Halometasone/triclosan cream and the comparative cream showed closely similar results with respect to good to very good therapeutic effects (60% versus 57%). However, halometasone/triclosan cream proved superior to the comparative preparation with regard to very good (cured) results (53% versus 46%), an early cure in less than 30 days (41% versus 34%) and onset of action within 3 days of starting the treatment (32% versus 18%). Mycological findings were positive on direct microscopy in 36% and 43% and in culture in 19% and 17% of the patients following treatment with halometasone/triclosan cream and the comparative cream preparation, respectively. Adverse effects were reported in seven out of 108 patients treated with halometasone/triclosan cream and in five out of 107 patients treated with the comparative preparation.