Final answer:
CMV infection in HIV patients is diagnosed using microscopic evaluation of tissue specimens or more sensitive molecular methods like PCR. Treatment for serious CMV infections includes antiviral medications such as ganciclovir and valganciclovir, and HIV infection is managed with a cocktail of antiretroviral drugs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diagnosis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in HIV patients can be made using various techniques. Microscopic evaluation of tissue specimens stained with routine and immunohistochemical stains can show the 'owl's eye' appearance typical of CMV infection.
However, this method is less sensitive than molecular methods like polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which can also determine viral load. More severe CMV infections are often tested with enzyme immunoassay (EIA), indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) tests, and PCR.
For treatment, antiviral drugs such as ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir are considered first-line therapies for serious CMV infections. Additionally, for HIV infection, a cocktail of antiretroviral drugs is used to prevent its progression and treat any opportunistic infections, including CMV.