v2.4.0.6
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2011
Apr. 25, 2011
Jun. 30, 2010
Entity Registrant Name PDL BIOPHARMA, INC.    
Entity Central Index Key 0000882104    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Public Float     $ 671,471,963
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   139,679,752  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1    
Document Type 10-Q    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2011