Questions to ask: ITP (low platelets)

Diagnosis

• How sure are you that I have ITP and not another cause of low platelets?
• What is my platelet count, and what count is safe for me?
• Is my ITP primary, or could it be caused by an infection, medicine, or another condition?
• Have I been tested for hepatitis C, HIV, and H. pylori?
• Do I need a bone marrow biopsy? Why or why not?
• Do I need treatment now, or can we watch and recheck?
• Which of my medicines or supplements could lower my platelets or raise bleeding risk?
• What activities should I avoid while my count is low?
• What bleeding signs mean I should call you or go to the emergency room?
• What should my family or caregiver know about my condition?

Before

• Which treatment do you suggest first, and why?
• How fast should this treatment raise my platelets?
• What side effects are most common, and how can I manage them?
• How long will I be on steroids, and how will we taper them?
• If I need a second treatment, what are my choices: a TPO medicine, rituximab, or surgery?
• What are the pros and cons of each option for someone like me?
• Do I need any vaccines before starting rituximab or having my spleen removed?
• Will this treatment affect pregnancy or breastfeeding?
• Will my insurance cover these medicines, and who can help with costs?

During

• Is my platelet count going up as expected?
• How often do I need blood tests?
• What platelet number would make you change my treatment?
• Is my TPO medicine dose right, and can we lower it if my count is high?
• Can I ever stop my TPO medicine, and how would we do it safely?
• I am having side effects. Can we change the dose or try something else?
• Do I need a higher count before my dental work or surgery?
• Is it safe for me to take blood thinners or aspirin if I need them?
• Should I think about a clinical trial?

After

• Is my ITP in remission, or is it being controlled by treatment?
• How often should I check my platelet count from now on?
• What are the signs that my ITP is coming back?
• If I had my spleen removed, which vaccines and boosters do I need, and when?
• Should I keep antibiotics at home for fevers?
• Is it safe for me to become pregnant?
• Are there support groups for people with ITP?

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.