Business Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary of segment information
Net revenues	$ 21,164	$ 20,944
Operating loss	(10,589)	(3,652)
Depreciation and amortization	1,602	1,809
Capital expenditures	480	306
Total assets	182,036		191,725
OSUR [Member]
Summary of segment information
Net revenues	17,232	17,646
Operating loss	(10,040)	(2,748)
Depreciation and amortization	777	889
Capital expenditures	243	267
Total assets	129,187		137,544
DNAG [Member]
Summary of segment information
Net revenues	3,932	3,298
Operating loss	(549)	(904)
Depreciation and amortization	825	920
Capital expenditures	237	39
Total assets	$ 52,849		$ 54,181