Lung lesions in an opossum (Didelphis virginiana) associated with Capillaria didelphis

An opossum (Didelphis virginiana) live-trapped on Parramore Island, Virginia was infected with the lung parasite Capillaria didelphis. Lung lesions associated with this parasite were extensive and consisted of numerous areas with central necrosis deep within the parenchyma. Necrotic foci were present around airways and consisted of a mixture of inflammatory cells and cellular debris, adult nematodes and many bipolar eggs. This parasite causes severe verminous pneumonia in the opossum.