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Commitments and Contingencies (Schedule of Contractual Obligations and Future Cash Payments) (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] |  |  |
Operating lease expenses | $ 77 | $ 139 | $ 233

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- Definition Operating Lease Expense + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | gale_OperatingLeaseExpense
Namespace Prefix: | gale_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

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- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration