The in vitro function of pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) was compared for human smokers and nonsmokers. Initial studies demonstrated the feasibility of shipping lavaged cells on ice with storage up to 6 h. Comparative studies were performed to evaluate ideal culture conditions including media composition, preincubation period and phagocytic variables. Smokers had a 6-fold enhancement in lavagable macrophages as compared to nonsmokers. Macrophages from smokers demonstrated a decreased phagocytic capability. The effects of cigarette smoking on phagocytosis were observed over a wide range of challenge periods using fetal or newborn bovine serum (FBS or NBS). Regardless of smoking history, enhanced phagocytosis was observed with media containing NBS compared to FBS. No effects on in vitro viability, attachment or adherence were observed.