Objective To summarize the TCM syndrome types in metabolic syndrome by using the methods of modern literature research. Methods Searching the related literatures of MetS collected by CNKI, WanFang Data and VIP, then according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, literatures were selected and Excel database was established, SPSS20.0 were used for the distribution of TCM syndrome types, elements and the difference between regions and gender respectively. Results Thirty-two TCM syndrome types and sixteen elements were obtained from thirty-four articles. Phlegm-heat, deficiency of both Qi and Yin and phlegm-blood stasis were the main TCM syndrome types in MetS. Phlegm, fire(heat), Yin deficiency, Qi deficiency, dampness and blood stasis were the main syndrome elements in the nature of diseases. From high to low, the proportion of syndrome elements in disease location were spleen, liver, kidney and stomach. There were differences in the distribution of TCM syndrome types between regions and gender respectively. Conclusion The main TCM syndrome types of MetS remain basically the same in all literature studies, but it is still necessary to fully consider factors such as region, gender, comorbidity, age, and course of disease that may affect dialectical bias.