Advice needed on Spherocytosis

Hi,

I was wondering whether anyone could recommend someone or somewhere I can get some decent advice about hereditary spherocytosis in relation to malaria risk.

My boyfriend has the condition and had his spleen removed as a child. He does not take antibiotics and has never had any further problems since (he is now 44!).

We are really hoping to go to Africa on holiday however he has been told that he will be at increased risk of Malaria. Another Doctor has suggested that he might be at a decreased risk of malaria in the same way that people with sickle cell anemia are due to the different shape of the blood. Obvioulsy we don't want to put him under any increased risk but we would like to know exactly what the risks are and we don't seem to get any decent information or consensus from Doctors.

If no one can answer perhaps someone might be able to point me in the direction of someone who can? It would be great to speak to an expert. My partner is also copes much better at high altitudes unlike me and I don't understand why this should be as he is supposed to have less blood and the blood he does have is less efficient at carrying oxygen around the body so I also find this baffling (though less important!).

Many thanks!