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Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2012
PreAnalytiX GmbH [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
QIAGEN Finance [Member]
Aug. 31, 2004
QIAGEN Finance [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
QIAGEN Euro Finance [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Scandinavian Gene Synthesis AB [Member]
Dec. 31, 2011
Scandinavian Gene Synthesis AB [Member]
Dec. 31, 2012
Pyrobett
Dec. 31, 2010
Pyrobett
May 31, 2006
Convertible Notes 3.25% Due in 2026 [Member]
QIAGEN Euro Finance [Member]
Investment [Line Items]                      
Ownership percentage     50.00% 100.00%   100.00% 40.00%   19.00%    
Convertible debt         $ 150.0           $ 300.0
Stated interest rates         1.50%           3.25%
Investment made in company 15.5 6.8               4.0  
Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment 3.4                    
Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments               9.7      
Advance Payment, Equity Method Investment, Additional Shares Acquisition Option               6.7      
Equity Method Investment Acquisition Option Percent             60.00%        
Business Combination Step Acquisition Equity Interest in Acquiree Payment             $ 8.4