Clinical/methodological issue <p>Imaging procedures are an integral component of the diagnostics and treatment of lymphomas for the initial diagnosis, staging and assessment of the efficacy of treatment. The different lymphoma entities show differences in metabolic activity and therefore require different examination modalities.</p> Standard radiological methods <p>This review article focuses on the primary imaging diagnostics of lymphomas using computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It also discusses the special imaging features of the various subtypes.</p> Methodological innovations <p>The potential of whole-body (WB) MRI, PET/MRI and other PET tracers are discussed.</p> Performance <p>In addition, the most important classifications for the diagnosis of spread and diagnostic scores based on imaging are explained and important pitfalls in initial imaging are discussed.</p> Assessment <p>Besides these most frequently used modalities, WB MRI and PET/MRI offer alternatives for special patient groups (e.g., children and pregnant women).</p> Practical recommendations <p>Imaging in the initial diagnosis of lymphomas should generally include an examination of the neck, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and inguinal region. Depending on the lymphoma entity, imaging is often performed using PET/CT or CT. Standardized staging classifications are used for many lymphoma entities but there are adapted criteria for several subtypes that should be taken into consideration.</p>