hyperechoic mass

I recently had an x-ray and an ultrasound done because I found a lump on my rib. The ultrasound indicated that it is a hyperechoic mass not related to my rib. What causes these masses and what could it mean? There is a history of cysts in my family but not cancer. I know people that have had similiar masses removed and they turned out to be nothing, but quite frankly I am somewhat frightened by it being there. I am being sent to a surgeon to have it looked and possibly to have a biopsy.