| Document and Entity Information Document | Aug. 08, 2019 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Registrant Name | QUIDEL CORP /DE/ |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000353569 |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 8, 2019 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 Par Value |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 0-10961 |
| Trading Symbol | QDEL |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-2573850 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 12544 High Bluff Drive |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 200 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Diego |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92130 |
| City Area Code | 858 |
| Local Phone Number | 552-1100 |
