Erysipelas is clinically defined as a febrile skin infection with a sudden onset of a red indurated expanding plaque with distinct border. A typical erysipelas presents various degrees of cutaneous erythema, oedema and is characterized by less well-defined margins. The responsible agent can be a beta-hemolytic streptococcus (group A), Staphylococcus aureus and other streptococci (group B, C and D). Common predisposing factors are venous insufficiency, lymphatic obstruction and underlying illnesses. Guidelines for the diagnosis and the management of erysipelas are proposed. The episodes of erysipelas ordinarily respond promptly to penicillin or a beta-lactamase resistant antibiotic. Prevention of recurrent erysipelas by means of an antibiotic prophylaxis is discussed.