The development of modern antibiotics has vastly improved the therapy of cutaneous bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This organism and beta-haemolytic streptococci are the most common cutaneous pathogens. A growing body of evidence suggests that proteins from S. aureus and some strains of streptococci can act as superantigens and cause polyclonal T-cell activation by binding directly to antigen-presenting cells. This process is a likely explanation of Kawasaki's syndrome as well as staphylococcal and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Sudden aggravation of atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and some cases of psoriasis can be similarly explained. Bacterial toxins can precipitate the staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Specific and effective eradication of bacteria and programmes to prevent recurrences are important, particularly in immune suppressed persons. Topical antibiotics used primarily for superficial infections of limited extent and for the prevention of recurrences in carriers of S. aureus should be combined with the use of topical disinfectants. The treatment of selected bacterial skin infections based on clinical examples will be discussed. These include secondarily infected dermatoses, cellulitis and streptococcal carriage in the ano-genital region and staphylococcal folliculitis and nasal carriage.