CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2023	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (37,647)	$ (42,825)	$ (54,376)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(85)
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments, net of taxes	1,598	(2,638)	(823)
Comprehensive loss	(36,134)	(45,463)	(55,199)
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(158)	(46)	(2)
Total comprehensive loss attributable to Cerus Corporation	$ (35,976)	$ (45,417)	$ (55,197)