CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (42,825)	$ (54,376)	$ (59,857)
Other comprehensive loss
Unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale investments, net of taxes	(2,638)	(823)	560
Comprehensive loss	(45,463)	(55,199)	(59,297)
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(46)	(2)
Total comprehensive loss attributable to Cerus Corporation	$ (45,417)	$ (55,197)	$ (59,297)