What is aspiration in medical terms?

In medical terms, aspiration refers to the process of drawing in or removing fluids or gases from a body cavity, often using a syringe or suction device. It can also describe the inhalation of foreign materials, such as food or liquids, into the lungs, which can lead to complications like aspiration pneumonia. Additionally, aspiration can involve the removal of fluid samples for diagnostic purposes, such as in procedures like aspiration biopsy.