Newly Diagnosed


Hearing you have ITP can be scary. The reality of being diagnosed with a rare bleeding disorder that has no cure begins an overwhelming ride of confusion, shock and anger.

But, as you begin life with ITP, remember: knowledge is power. Learning about the condition is the first step to help you feel better and live a long, healthy life. And, one of the best ways to get answers is by asking questions.

Below is a list of questions and suggestions to help you choose the best doctor and treatment to manage your condition:

Choose the best doctor for you

  • How much experience have you had treating patients with ITP?
  • How many ITP patients have you treated, and how is their overall health?
  • Are you affiliated with any research group or hospital that specializes in non-malignant hematology?
  • What is your treatment philosophy? Do you generally treat diseases aggressively or do you have a more conservative treatment approach?
  • Do you welcome a patient who researches the disease and treatments?
  • Do you welcome patient input on their care?
  • What is your feeling about complementary or alternative treatments?

Get to know more about treatments

  • What are your usual treatment recommendations for ITP?
  • What course of treatment do you suggest and why?
  • How long will I need this treatment?
  • How will the treatment be administered?
  • What are the criteria for discontinuing the treatment?
  • Is this treatment designed to raise my platelet count temporarily or permanently?
  • What will you recommend next if the treatment fails?
  • What are the side effects of the treatment?
  • Which side effects should I communicate with you?
  • Are there any precautions that can be taken to minimize the side effects?
  • Will I develop other medical problems from this treatment?
  • How will you monitor the treatment progress?
  • What changes should I make to my life as a result of ITP or the treatment?

The Platelet Disorder Support Association is here to empower you on a broad range of topics including diagnosis, prevention and management, treatment approaches and the facts about remission.

Learn More

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