Which type of lung cancer commonly presents with hypercalcemia?

Squamous cell carcinoma is the type of lung cancer that is most commonly associated with hypercalcemia. This phenomenon occurs due to the production of parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) by the tumor. PTHrP mimics the action of parathyroid hormone, leading to increased bone resorption and renal tubular reabsorption of calcium, consequently elevating serum calcium levels.

In contrast, while small cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma can also produce paraneoplastic syndromes, they are less frequently associated with hypercalcemia. Bronchial carcinoid tumors typically do not have a significant effect on calcium metabolism and are more known for causing the carcinoid syndrome. Therefore, squamous cell carcinoma stands out as the primary lung cancer type linked to hypercalcemia, making it the correct choice in this context.