Postmortem Analysis of Injuries by Roadkill of a White-eared Opossum (Didelphis Albiventis) by Radiographs and Forensic Necropsy-A Virtopsy Case Report

Abstract

The white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) is one of the most road-killed animals in Brazil, especially due to its opportunistic habits and great adaptation to urban environment. Although radiology is present in the veterinary daily routine, it is uncommon in forensic necropsies, especially in wild animals. A white-eared opossum killed by a vehicle in a road of the State of São Paulo, Brazil was submitted to entire-body radiographs followed by forensic necropsy. The images revealed diffuse increased radio-opacity in both hemi-thoraces possibly of hemorrhagic origin, whereas the forensic necropsy findings were consistent with bloody pleural effusion. It was possible to conclude that postmortem radiographs in wild animals could contribute to determine the cause of death and improve forensic investigations.