What is the most likely diagnosis for a lesion that is painful, bright red, and has distinct raised borders, accompanied by fever and chills?

The lesion described as painful, bright red, and having distinct raised borders, along with fever and chills, is most consistent with erysipelas. Erysipelas is an acute bacterial skin infection, typically caused by streptococcus bacteria, which presents with well-defined, raised edges. The vibrant red appearance indicates significant inflammation, and the associated systemic symptoms like fever and chills suggest an infectious process.

Erysipelas is characterized by its classic presentation of a well-demarcated, erythematous patch that is warm to touch and can be accompanied by symptoms of systemic infection. The raised borders differentiate it from conditions such as cellulitis, which tends to have poorly defined edges.

In cases of impetigo, the lesions are usually more superficial, crusted, and weepy, presenting primarily in children and not typically featuring raised borders or systemic symptoms like high fever or chills. Erythrasma is a chronic skin condition caused by a bacterial infection that appears as reddish-brown patches in intertriginous areas and does not present with the acute symptoms described. Lastly, cellulitis can also present with fever and chills, but it lacks the distinct, raised borders characteristic of erysipelas and can appear with less well-defined margins.