| Cover | Nov. 12, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 12, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-32001 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Aptose Biosciences Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000882361 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-1136802 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | Z4 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 251 Consumers Road, Suite 1105 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Toronto, Ontario |
| Entity Address, State or Province | ON |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | M2J 4R3 |
| City Area Code | 647 |
| Local Phone Number | 479-9828 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Shares, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | APTO |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
