Which field applies knowledge of blood serum for diagnostics?

Serology is the field that specifically focuses on the study of blood serum and its components, particularly antibodies and antigens, for diagnostic purposes. This branch of medical science is vital in diagnosing infections, autoimmune diseases, and various other medical conditions by assessing immune responses or identifying pathogens in the serum. Through serological tests, clinicians can determine the presence and concentration of specific antibodies, which is crucial for diagnosing diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and certain bacterial infections.

Oncology, while related to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, does not specifically focus on blood serum as its primary diagnostic tool. Pathology encompasses a broader study of disease processes and includes various bodily tissues and fluids, not limited to serum. Radiology primarily deals with imaging techniques, such as X-rays and MRIs, rather than the analysis of blood serum for diagnostic purposes.