Ann,

I agree with Jack. Eczema was the thing I thought of as well. This is quite
common with babies, especially in the winter time. Breastfeeding is highly
recommended for babies with eczema as they tend to have *sensitive* skin and
a tendency to allergies. By all means DO NOT stop breastfeeding! What a
mistake that would be. Eczema has been described as an itch that rashes. It
can be simply red rough skin or it can get quite oozy (sp?). It is very
responsive to hydrocortisone ointments. How could a pediatrician... I won't
even say.

If the rash is all over his body, fabric softeners could certainly cause an
allergic reaction as well. BTW, the diaper area is often spared with eczema.
The baby is rashy everywhere but the diaper area. Something to consider.
Good luck!
Mari Douma, DO