Cutaneous infections continue to represent a large proportion of inpatient dermatology. This article reviews infectious skin diseases that warrant hospitalization. Selected disease topics include: primary cutaneous infections, exotoxin–mediated syndromes, and systemic infections. Dermatologists play a critical role in the synthesis of history, physical exam, and laboratory interpretation. Prompt examination of a gram-stained smear of fresh tissue or exudate can provide immediate information, long before the results of blood cultures become available.