Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)

DC 7705Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7705

A blood disorder where your immune system destroys your own platelets, causing easy bruising and bleeding. The VA rates ITP based on your platelet count, bleeding episodes, and the treatment you need to manage it.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7705

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7705. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your ITP is refractory to treatment with life-threatening bleeding episodes, or you require frequent platelet transfusions to survive.

What the VA looks for

Platelet count persistently below 20,000
Life-threatening hemorrhage (intracranial bleeding, massive GI bleed)
Refractory to multiple treatment lines
Frequent platelet transfusions required
Hospitalization for bleeding complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting all bleeding episodes including nosebleeds, heavy bruising, blood in urine or stool, and heavy menstrual bleeding — these support higher ratings.
⚠Failing to report the side effects of chronic corticosteroid use (weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis, mood changes) which may warrant separate secondary ratings.
⚠Not getting serial platelet counts over time — a single normal count does not reflect the chronic nature of ITP. Request labs before your C&P exam.
⚠Not connecting ITP to military service — autoimmune conditions can be triggered by vaccines, infections, or toxic exposures during service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7705

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your ITP is refractory to treatment with life-threatening bleeding episodes, or you require frequent platelet transfusions to survive.

What the VA looks for

Platelet count persistently below 20,000
Life-threatening hemorrhage (intracranial bleeding, massive GI bleed)
Refractory to multiple treatment lines
Frequent platelet transfusions required
Hospitalization for bleeding complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting all bleeding episodes including nosebleeds, heavy bruising, blood in urine or stool, and heavy menstrual bleeding — these support higher ratings.

⚠Failing to report the side effects of chronic corticosteroid use (weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis, mood changes) which may warrant separate secondary ratings.

⚠Not getting serial platelet counts over time — a single normal count does not reflect the chronic nature of ITP. Request labs before your C&P exam.

⚠Not connecting ITP to military service — autoimmune conditions can be triggered by vaccines, infections, or toxic exposures during service.