Which condition is characterized by nail surface pitting and roughness?

Nail psoriasis is the condition characterized by nail surface pitting and roughness. This skin disorder can affect the nails by causing changes in their texture and appearance. The pitting occurs due to the overproduction of skin cells, leading to the formation of small depressions on the nail surface. In addition to pitting, nails affected by psoriasis can show variations in color, thickness, and may even develop ridges or become discolored.

Leukonychia refers to white spots on the nails, usually caused by minor trauma, and does not involve the roughness or pitting seen in psoriasis. Onychophagy, or nail biting, primarily results in shortened, damaged nails rather than the distinct surface changes associated with nail psoriasis. Pincer nails involve abnormal curvature of the nail rather than changes in the nail surface's texture, so they do not present with pitting. Therefore, the specific characteristics of nail surface pitting and roughness are hallmark signs of nail psoriasis.