CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Sep. 30, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (2,934)	$ (7,286)	$ (18,399)	$ (36,258)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
Foreign currency translation adjustment	16	(3)	5	(101)
Unrealized gains on available-for-sale investments, net of taxes	747	211	1,165	663
Comprehensive loss	(2,171)	(7,078)	(17,229)	(35,696)
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest		(19)	(2)	(97)
Total comprehensive loss attributable to Cerus Corporation	$ (2,171)	$ (7,059)	$ (17,227)	$ (35,599)