(Palpable means something that can be touched or felt.) Doing a mammogram or ultrasound (or both) of the palpable mass is usually the next step your doctor will take to evaluate the mass. A biopsy may then be done to figure out if the mass is cancer. Most palpable masses are benign (not cancer).

What is a non palpable mass mean?

Non-palpable means the mass cannot be felt. With cancer, non-palpable growths are too small to be felt, but they can be detected on ultrasound, mammography or an MRI. Non-palpable masses may be cancerous or benign. A tissue sampling, called a core needle biopsy, will be necessary to rule out cancerous cells.

What is the difference between a lump and a mass?

According to the National Cancer Institute, a mass is a lump in the body that can be caused by the abnormal growth of cells, a cyst, hormonal changes or an immune reaction.