Which paraneoplastic syndrome is associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung?

Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung is most commonly associated with hypercalcemia due to the production of parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTrP). This peptide mimics the action of parathyroid hormone, leading to increased levels of calcium in the blood. The mechanism involves PTrP stimulating bone resorption and renal reabsorption of calcium, resulting in hypercalcemia.

Patients with squamous cell lung carcinoma may present with hypercalcemia, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, dehydration, and kidney stones. Recognizing this paraneoplastic syndrome is crucial for diagnosing and managing the underlying malignancy.

Other paraneoplastic syndromes, while associated with lung cancer, are more typical of different types. For example, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is primarily linked with small cell lung carcinoma. Cushing syndrome can also occur due to ectopic production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) but is not the hallmark of squamous cell carcinoma. Lambert-Eaton syndrome, characterized by weakness due to presynaptic calcium channel antibodies, often occurs with small cell lung carcinoma rather than squamous cell.

Understanding the relationship between squamous cell carcinoma and hypercalcemia via PTr