Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to Sorrento	$ (60,923)	$ (45,811)	$ (34,657)
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized (loss) gain on marketable securities, net of tax of $(14,294), $14,294, and $0	(73,579)	73,579	0
Foreign currency translations adjustments and other	(118)	0	0
Total other comprehensive income	(73,697)	73,579	0
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Sorrento	(134,620)	27,768	(34,657)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Comprehensive (loss) income	$ (134,620)	$ 27,768	$ (34,657)