Dani -- I wish I had brilliant words of wisdom but ...
Best I can do is to suggest this mom most certainly seek more opinions re
treatment of this problem. You don't mention whether other members of family
have -- perhaps it is not genetic? Surely if it is environmental then a
causative agent can be isolated.
How about a pediatric allergist?? She needs to find a physician who shares
your attitude -- we have a problem so now let's go find a solution.
Has she changed detergents to one of those no-perfume types? Tried soap
flake type? Stopped using softener?
My son had a MILD tendency to eczema -- nothing compared to the situation you
describe -- brought on when I ate tomatoes or, later, when he ate tomato
sauce. Dairy may have been an issue.
Good luck.
Joanna Koch, IBCLC in Los Altos, CA